England Survive Mexico Scare as Bellingham, Kane Shine in Gutsy Azteca Win

England booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals with a nerve-shredding 3-2 victory over Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, thanks to a brilliant brace from Jude Bellingham and a heroic defensive stand after an early red card. Bellingham struck twice in quick succession to put the Three Lions in control after a sluggish start, silencing the raucous home crowd. Julian Quiñones pulled one back before Harry Kane restored the two-goal cushion from the penalty spot. But the match descended into chaos when defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a reckless challenge on Jesús Gallardo – England's first red card at a World Cup since Wayne Rooney in 2006. Despite being a man down for over half an hour, Thomas Tuchel's side dug in with a resolute defensive performance. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford produced his best display of the tournament, clawing away a dangerous header from Raúl Jiménez early on and making several crucial saves. Centre-backs Ezri Konsa and Marc Guéhi threw their bodies on the line, while Declan Rice battled through injury and a first-minute booking to anchor the midfield. Nico O'Reilly impressed at left-back before being substituted after avoiding a red card for an elbow, and Elliot Anderson provided vital cover as England clung to their lead. Bellingham, awarded a perfect 10 rating, was everywhere – scoring twice and even clearing a shot off the line in his own box. The win sets up a quarter-final clash with Norway, with England's resilience earning widespread praise. Player ratings: Pickford 9; Quansah 4; Konsa 8; Guehi 8; O'Reilly 7; Anderson 7; Rice 7; Saka 6; Bellingham 10; Kane 8; others not listed.