Jude Bellingham scored two goals in quick succession, boosting England’s chances in a dramatic 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico at Estadio Azteca. Harry Kane added another goal via penalty despite England being down to 10 men. This victory sent Mexico to its first World Cup loss at this venue, where it remained unbeaten in 10 matches, including three this year.
England will next face Norway on Saturday in Miami Gardens, Florida, competing for a spot in the semifinals. Bellingham amazed the over 80,000-strong crowd when he first scored with a header in the 36th minute, then again at the 38th minute with an assist from Kane.
Julián Quiñones managed a goal for Mexico in the 42nd minute. Tensions rose when England’s Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute after a dangerous tackle on Jesús Gallardo. Despite being short a player, England earned a penalty due to a challenge by Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel. Kane capitalized on it, marking his sixth goal in this tournament and 14th in his World Cup career. This achievement draws him level with Gerd Müller of West Germany for fifth on the all-time scoring list. He currently stands one goal behind Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland in the Golden Boot race.
Kane then became the first player since at least 1966 to score and concede a penalty in the same World Cup game. Raúl Jiménez converted the kick for Mexico using a stutter-step approach, moving the score to 3-2.
During the final 21 minutes and an additional 11 minutes of stoppage time, Mexico relentlessly attacked. Yet, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and England’s defenders maintained their composure, securing the win. This continues Mexico’s struggle to reach the quarterfinals since hosting in 1986, as they have repeatedly exited in the round of 16 and faced disqualification in 1990.
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