England Survives Azteca Thriller To Beat Mexico 3-2

England pulled off a dramatic win at the famous Estadio Azteca. The Three Lions beat co-host Mexico 3-2 despite playing over 30 minutes down a man. The result sends England into the quarterfinals.

How The Match Unfolded

Jude Bellingham scored twice within 98 seconds late in the first half. His first goal came from a header in the 36th minute. He added a second just two minutes later from a Harry Kane assist.

Julian Quinones pulled one back for Mexico before halftime. His well-taken volley cut England's lead to 2-1. Mexico carried strong momentum into the second half after that goal.

England defender Jarell Quansah received a straight red card in the 54th minute. VAR review overturned the referee's initial decision on the pitch. The dangerous challenge on Jesus Gallardo left England down to ten men.

Harry Kane restored England's two-goal cushion soon after. He converted a penalty following a foul on Anthony Gordon. That penalty marked his sixth goal of the tournament.

Kane then conceded a penalty of his own late in the match. Raul Jimenez converted the spot kick to make it 3-2. Mexico pushed hard for an equalizer during the remaining minutes.

England's defense held firm through a barrage of late pressure. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several crucial saves to preserve the lead. The Three Lions survived to secure their quarterfinal spot.

Why This Win Means So Much For England

Mexico had never lost a World Cup match at the Estadio Azteca before this game. That unbeaten run included three matches during this very tournament. England ended that historic streak with the win.

England also erased a painful memory from their own history at this venue. Diego Maradona's controversial handball goal eliminated England here back in 1986. This victory helped close that decades old chapter for English football.

What This Means For Mexico's Tournament

Mexico's run as co-host ends after four matches. The team had won all of their previous games this tournament. Reaching the quarterfinals remained just out of reach for the host nation.

Mexico last advanced to the quarterfinals back in 1986. Their previous eight round of 16 appearances all ended in defeat. This loss extends that long wait for a deeper tournament run.

What Comes Next For England

England will face Norway in the quarterfinals this Saturday. That match takes place in Miami Gardens, Florida. Norway reached this stage by eliminating five-time champions Brazil.

England previously reached the semifinal in 2018 and the quarterfinal in 2022. A win against Norway would mark three straight tournaments in the last eight. Only a small handful of nations have matched that feat historically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who scored England's goals against Mexico?

Jude Bellingham scored twice, and Harry Kane converted a penalty. All three goals came in a span covering the first half and early second half.

Q: Why did England play with ten men for most of the match?

Jarell Quansah received a straight red card in the 54th minute. VAR review overturned an initial non-foul decision on the pitch.

Q: Has Mexico ever lost a World Cup match at the Estadio Azteca before?

No, this marked Mexico's first ever World Cup loss at that venue. Their unbeaten run there had included three matches this tournament alone.

Q: Who does England play in the quarterfinals?

England faces Norway on Saturday in Miami Gardens, Florida. Norway advanced by eliminating five-time champions Brazil in the previous round.