By Joseph Armstrong-Gardner
Image Credit: Getty Images
England churned out their best performance of the World Cup so far to overcome Mexico and set up a quarter-final against Norway.
Mexico came into the match with supreme form, having only lost two of their last 89 competitive games at their Azteca fortress.
Jude Bellingham gave England the lead and went on to score a brace within 98 seconds before half-time, with his first goal a headed finish courtesy of Bukayo Saka. Bellingham’s second goal was a tap-in from close range, as a result of a selfless act from England’s star striker Harry Kane.
Image Credit: Getty Images
Jordan Pickford was in close concentration on the night, twice saving brilliantly from Raul Jimenez, but Julian Quinones managed to break through the brick wall that seemed to be Pickford last night.
The tables turned in the second half when Quanseh was sent off for a high challenge on Jesus Gallardo, but England bit back with a two-goal cushion after Kane calmly slotted away his penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled by Mexican goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
Just when England thought they had calmed the storm in the Azteca fortress, Kane kicked Brian Gutierrez’s foot in the arena, and Mexican striker Raul Jimenez converted the spot kick accordingly.
England live to fight another day but will no doubt be fearful of an electrifying Norwegian team, whom they face next in the quarter finals.