England booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the 11th time in the nation's history after edging Mexico 3-2 in an entertaining Round of 16 clash at the Azteca Stadium.
The Three Lions strengthened their status among the tournament's most successful teams, with only Brazil (15) and Germany (14) having reached the World Cup quarter-finals more often.
England took control late in the first half through Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in quick succession in the 37th and 38th minutes. Mexico responded almost immediately as Julián Quiñones pulled one back in the 41st minute to make it 2-1 at the break.
Captain Harry Kane restored England's two-goal cushion from the penalty spot in the 61st minute before Raúl Jiménez reduced the deficit again in the 70th minute, setting up a tense finish.
England were forced to play with 10 men after defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card in the 53rd minute following a VAR review for a challenge on Jesús Gallardo, but Gareth Southgate's side held on to secure victory.
The Three Lions will now face Norway in the quarter-finals, with both sides aiming to book a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
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