England secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals where they will face Norway. The match, delayed by an hour due to severe storms, saw Thomas Tuchel’s side overcome a red card to secure a significant win.
Despite Mexico’s formidable home record, having lost only two of 89 competitive games at the Azteca, England took control early. Jude Bellingham scored twice within 98 seconds before half-time, giving England a strong lead. Mexico goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several crucial saves, including two from Raul Jimenez, but was unable to stop Julian Quinones from scoring for Mexico three minutes before the break.
Second half drama and a red card
The atmosphere intensified when England’s Jarell Quansah received a red card early in the second half for a high challenge on Jesus Gallardo. Despite being reduced to 10 men, England managed to restore their two-goal advantage when Harry Kane converted a penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled by goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
However, Mexico quickly responded. Kane was penalised for kicking Brian Gutierrez’s foot in the area, leading to a penalty that Jimenez successfully converted. With the score at 3-2 and under immense pressure, Tuchel introduced Dan Burn and Djed Spence, shifting to a five-man defence to see out 11 minutes of stoppage time and secure the win.
Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre, expressed deep disappointment following the loss. He stated that the players gave their all but it was not enough to secure a victory. Aguirre also confirmed he would step down after his third stint as Mexico’s coach, with former Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez, his assistant at this World Cup, set to replace him.
The defeat marks Mexico’s third competitive loss at the Azteca since its opening in 1966, following previous 2-1 defeats in World Cup qualifiers against Costa Rica in 2001 and Honduras in 2013. This result means Mexico’s World Cup run ends short of the quarter-finals once again, marking their eighth elimination in the round of 16 since 1986.
Looking ahead for England
For England, the victory represents one of their finest in recent years, achieved in a challenging environment. The team’s cool approach and ability to perform under pressure were key factors in their success. They now prepare to face Norway in the quarter-finals.
The match was played in front of 80,824 passionate fans at the Estadio Azteca, creating a fervent atmosphere. The home-field advantage and a man advantage for much of the second half were not enough for Mexico to overcome England’s performance.
Aguirre reflected on his time as coach, saying, “These five matches are unforgettable. I am saying goodbye to the Estadio Azteca and leaving with great pride after so many years.” He also endorsed his successor, stating, “Rafa is a great kid, a valuable coach and he is going to show it. Hopefully he is going to do it better than me.”
One Mexico fan, Ramiro Caballero, a businessman, expressed his sadness, noting that England had only five shots on goal but scored three. He felt it was the perfect scenario for Mexico to advance, and now they must wait for another opportunity.
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Source: bbc.com
