Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Bellingham's Double Secures England Win Over Mexico

7/7/2026

47 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Bellingham’s Brace

England beat Mexico 3-2, moving to a quarter-final versus Norway.
Jude Bellingham scored twice in 98 seconds, first from a Bukayo Saka cross and the second two minutes later.
Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute after a tackle on Jesús Gallardo, reducing England to ten men.
Harry Kane’s penalty and Raúl Jiménez’s equaliser set the 3-2 scoreline, while Jordan Pickford’s key saves and clearance preserved England’s win.

Summary

England Victory

Jordan Henderson fractured his left arm, was hospitalized and will miss the World Cup.
After Quansah’s red card, Tuchel switched to a five-defender system and added Dan Burn, leading clearances.
A storm delayed kickoff an hour, making the match start at 02:00 BST on the Azteca’s 7,300-foot altitude.
England gave Mexico its first defeat at the Azteca, prompting fans to gather in pubs and schools singing “Hey Jude” and “Wonderwall”.

History

Historical Context

In 1970, Mexico hosted the first World Cup outside Europe and South America, with the 16-team finals played at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca where defending champions England lost 1-0 to the hosts. The altitude was cited as a key factor. A century-later England reversed that result with a 3-2 win, showing modern fitness and tactics can overcome the historic disadvantage.

1 of 3

Bellingham’s Brace

England beat Mexico 3-2, moving to a quarter-final versus Norway.
Jude Bellingham scored twice in 98 seconds, first from a Bukayo Saka cross and the second two minutes later.
Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute after a tackle on Jesús Gallardo, reducing England to ten men.
Harry Kane’s penalty and Raúl Jiménez’s equaliser set the 3-2 scoreline, while Jordan Pickford’s key saves and clearance preserved England’s win.

1 / 3