Bellingham double, Kane penalty send England past Mexico 3-2
England defeated Mexico 3-2 on Sunday at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a victory that required a second-half defensive rearguard after a red card left Gareth Southgate's side with ten men for the majority of the second half. The result handed Mexico its first World Cup defeat at the Estadio Azteca.
Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid midfielder, was the defining figure of the opening period. He scored twice in the space of two minutes in the first half, leaving Mexico's defense without an answer and putting England in command at 2-0. Julian Quinones reduced the arrears before halftime, pulling one back to make it 2-1 and giving the crowd of 87,500 reason to believe. The atmosphere at the storied venue - which has hosted World Cup fixtures since 1970 - was hostile throughout. billiard betting site
England's task became considerably harder in the 53rd minute when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card, reducing the side to ten men. Mexico, however, failed to press the numerical advantage. Goalkeeper Raul Rangel brought down Anthony Gordon inside the penalty area, conceding a spot kick. Captain Harry Kane converted the penalty to restore a two-goal cushion at 3-1. Mexico struck back in the 69th minute when Raul Jimenez converted a penalty of his own, cutting the deficit to 3-2. England absorbed sustained pressure in the closing stages to preserve the result.
England advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face Norway. Mexico, who were playing at the Estadio Azteca - a ground at which they had not previously lost a World Cup match - are eliminated from the tournament.
