Shearer: I've changed my mind - England can win this World Cup after Mexico statement

Alan Shearer admits he had his doubts before the knockout stage, but after watching England dismantle Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, the all-time Premier League goalscorer is fully on board with the Three Lions' chances of lifting the trophy. Speaking after England's comprehensive victory – a match that saw them reduced to ten men yet still produce what Shearer calls the best team performance he has ever seen from an England side away from home – the former striker explained why his outlook has shifted. “From the fans to the players, everyone must be thinking we can actually win this thing. I know I am,” Shearer said. “Before that game, I didn't truly believe it was possible. Now I do.” Shearer, 55, drew comparisons to Euro '96, when England's 4-1 demolition of the Netherlands at Wembley convinced him the team could go all the way. “That's exactly how this squad will be feeling after such an incredible result when everything was against them – the altitude, the atmosphere, going down to ten men.” Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham delivered the goals, but Shearer was equally impressed by the contributions from every player on the pitch and the impact of Thomas Tuchel's substitutions. He highlighted the togetherness displayed in the dressing room celebrations, including a prank by John Stones that even fooled Tuchel. Looking ahead to the quarterfinal against Norway in Miami, Shearer acknowledged the challenge posed by Erling Haaland, who scored twice to knock out Brazil. “I don't think there's a way of stopping him,” Shearer admitted, but he backed England's adaptability as their biggest weapon. “I don't look at this England team and think we have a set identity like Spain or Argentina. Instead, we adapt to whatever is in front of us. That's got us to the last eight, and it shouldn't change now.”