Mexico City — Mexican players, overwhelmed with emotion, greeted fans with tears in their eyes at Azteca Stadium following their World Cup journey. Despite a valiant effort, Mexico’s aspirations of progressing beyond the Round of 16 ended as England triumphed with a 3-2 victory.
England’s tactical prowess and talent shone through, even after being reduced to 10 players. Jude Bellingham delivered an outstanding performance, scoring two goals within two minutes in the first half. Harry Kane added another goal by successfully converting a penalty kick in the second half.
Raúl Jiménez managed to score for Mexico after Kane’s penalty, narrowing the gap to 3-2, but it wasn’t sufficient. Mexico coach Javier Aguirre expressed regret over the errors that led to the goals, acknowledging the challenges of competing at the highest level.
England, viewed as a contender for the World Cup title, will now face Norway, who previously surprised Brazil, in a quarterfinal match scheduled for July 11 in Miami. Despite the altitude, pollution, and the support of over 80,000 fans, England’s superior lineup controlled the game.
England coach Thomas Tuchel commented that the match felt more like a final than a Round of 16 encounter. He noted the difficulty of the early part of the game at Mexico City’s high altitude, praising his team’s resolve.
“This match didn’t feel like a round of 16 match; it felt like a final. We analyzed the situation; we knew the first 20 minutes at high altitude would be the toughest. This is a special team.” — England coach Thomas Tuchel
Mexico didn’t concede goals throughout the tournament, partly due to their ability to establish early leads. However, England capitalized on brief lapses in concentration. Bukayo Saka provided a crucial assist to Bellingham, scoring in the 36th minute. Shortly after, a mistake by Gilberto Mora allowed England to double their lead.
Encouraged by the roaring crowd, Mexico fought hard to stage a comeback. Quiñones reduced England’s lead by scoring in response, igniting hopes in Azteca Stadium. Mexico showed improved energy in the second half, aided by halftime entertainment from Maná.
Mexico seemed poised for a breakthrough after a VAR review awarded a red card to England’s Jarell Quansah in the 54th minute. Despite the numerical advantage, Mexico couldn’t fully capitalize. England adjusted plans, with Anthony Gordon earning a decisive penalty kick after a foul by Mexico’s goalkeeper Raúl Rangel.
Harry Kane converted the penalty, sealing the 3-1 victory. Despite a foul by Kane leading to a penalty for Mexico, which Raúl Jiménez converted to make it 3-2, England maintained composure. Kane’s goal marked his sixth of the tournament, cementing his position among the top World Cup scorers.
“It was a crazy game, and we had to fight hard. It was one of those days when the referee is against us, and we managed to win.” — Harry Kane
Mexico struggled to match England’s physicality, as England used its height advantage to control aerial challenges. Changes by coach Aguirre did little to alter Mexico’s fortunes. Despite the defeat, Mexico’s performance inspired pride.
Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa felt the weight of elimination as he neared retirement after numerous World Cup appearances. Mexico’s midfielder Erik Lira and forward Guillermo Martínez expressed mixed emotions about their journey.
“I think we lost with a lot of honor. I’m not satisfied, but I am happy with what we achieved.” — Mexico midfielder Erik Lira
Mexico’s record at Azteca Stadium remains impressive, with few losses among many victories and draws. Aguirre praised the team’s efforts and the solid foundation laid for the future. Although the defeat stung, Mexico found solace in the joy their performance brought to fans.