England survive Mexico’s rally, advances to World Cup Quarterfinals with 3-2 victory

MEXICO CITY - (KYMA) - England held off a determined Mexico comeback and survived nearly an hour with 10 men to earn a 3-2 victory in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 at Mexico City Stadium.

The visitors jumped out to an early advantage behind Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in a two-minute span during the first half to put England ahead 2-0. Mexico responded before the break when Julián Quiñones found the back of the net in the 42nd minute, cutting the deficit to 2-1 heading into halftime.

England’s challenge grew even greater in the 54th minute when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a red card for a studs-up tackle, forcing the Three Lions to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.

Despite being a man down, England extended its lead when Anthony Gordon drew a penalty after being taken down by Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel on a breakaway opportunity. Harry Kane stepped up to the spot and converted, blasting his penalty past Rangel to make it 3-1. The goal added to Kane’s record, six, for the most penalty goals in FIFA World Cup history.

Mexico refused to go away. Minutes later, a VAR review awarded El Tri a penalty after Kane was judged to have fouled Roberto Alvarado inside the box. Raúl Jiménez calmly converted from the spot in the 65th minute, bringing Mexico back within one goal and reigniting the home crowd.

Mexico pushed for an equalizer deep into stoppage time, with Alvarado delivering a dangerous cross into the area, but the final chance rolled just wide of the target.

The result ends Mexico’s World Cup run despite a spirited comeback effort. England advances to the quarterfinals, where it will face Norway on Saturday. With Mexico eliminated, the United States remains the lone co-host nation still alive in the tournament.