MEXICO CITY, July 6 — Ten-man England weathered a spirited Mexico fightback at the Azteca Stadium to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the third successive tournament with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the co-hosts this morning, thanks to a Jude Bellingham double and a Harry Kane penalty.
Thomas Tuchel's side made life difficult for themselves but handed Mexico their first-ever World Cup defeat at the iconic stadium to set up a last-eight clash with Norway, who shocked Brazil 2-1 earlier this morning.
Mexico had lost only two competitive matches at the Azteca in 89 games since 1966, but England deserved to inflict a third defeat.
After kick-off was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms, Mexico attacked from the outset, backed by a passionate home crowd that generated an even louder atmosphere than in their previous matches at the famous venue. England, however, stood firm and gradually took control of the contest.
Bellingham gave England the lead just after the half-hour mark with a diving header from Bukayo Saka's pinpoint cross before doubling the advantage less than two minutes later after another attack down the right, with captain Harry Kane providing the assist.
Quinones gives Mexico hope
The home crowd responded with chants of "Yes we can", and Mexico pulled a goal back when lively winger Julian Quinones volleyed home from close range after a goalmouth scramble following a free kick.
The hosts were handed another boost early in the second half when England defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a rash challenge.
England kept their composure, however, and restored their two-goal cushion on the hour when Anthony Gordon was brought down by the goalkeeper before Kane calmly converted the resulting penalty.
Just as England appeared to have regained control, Kane conceded a penalty while attempting to clear the ball. Following a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot and Raul Jimenez converted to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
With just over 20 minutes remaining, England came under sustained pressure but defended resolutely to keep Mexico at bay. Despite conceding much of the possession, they held on for a memorable victory in the final World Cup match to be played in Mexico.
It was England's first appearance at the famous stadium since their 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina, when Diego Maradona's infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal and brilliant solo effort condemned Bobby Robson's side to elimination.
