England produced one of the most dramatic wins of the World Cup as Thomas Tuchelâs 10-man side beat Mexico 3-2 in a breathless last-16 classic at the Azteca Stadium.
The build-up had been dominated by talk of altitude, noise, hostile crowds and Mexicoâs formidable record on home soil. But by the end of a chaotic night in Mexico City, England had written a new chapter of their own. They became the first team ever to beat Mexico at the Azteca in a World Cup match, ending the co-hostsâ proud unbeaten run at the iconic stadium.
Jude Bellingham was the star of the night. With Mexico threatening to take control, the Real Madrid midfielder delivered two huge moments in quick succession, scoring twice in two minutes to silence the stadium and swing the momentum firmly towards England. His all-action display earned him the player-of-the-match award, with his numbers telling the story: goals, duels, tackles, take-ons and crucial defensive work when England needed him most.
Harry Kane then stepped up again when the pressure was at its highest. Englandâs captain converted from the penalty spot for what proved to be the winning goal, adding another decisive moment to his World Cup story. His strike also drew him level with Gary Lineker for the most England goals in knockout matches at the tournament, underlining his status as one of the countryâs greatest big-game scorers.
But this was not simply a night of attacking brilliance. After England were reduced to 10 men, they had to survive a long Mexican onslaught in front of a deafening home crowd. Jordan Pickford produced big saves, the back line threw bodies in front of shots, and the whole team showed the kind of grit and unity that has often been demanded of England on the biggest stage.
Tuchel was full of pride afterwards, calling it an iconic match in an iconic stadium. He admitted England still have areas to improve, but praised the heart, belief and willpower that carried them through a brutal test.
Mexico were left devastated after pushing England to the limit, but the Three Lions now march on to a quarter-final against Norway. With Erling Haaland waiting next, the challenge does not get easier. Yet after surviving the Azteca with 10 men, England will believe anything is possible.
