Bellingham double fires 10-man England past Mexico 3-2 to reach World Cup quarter-finals

Jude Bellingham scored twice to send England into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Azteca in Mexico City, the first time the Three Lions have beaten their hosts at that stadium. England were reduced to 10 men when defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a high tackle following a VAR review, yet held on to complete a dramatic late-night win that had kick-off delayed by an hour due to lightning storms around the ground.

Prince William, the Prince of Wales and President of the FA, was among the first to react, posting a seven-word message on social media shortly after the final whistle — which came at 4am UK time — reading: “Well done England! Bring on the quarter final!”

The result sets up a last-eight tie against Norway in Miami on Saturday, after Manchester City striker Erling Haaland scored twice to eliminate Brazil, who could only manage one goal in extra time.

England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted to mixed emotions after the win, with midfielder Jordan Henderson sustaining what the head coach described as “quite a serious injury” after falling over an advertising hoarding during the post-match celebrations. “My emotions are very mixed,” Tuchel said. “I’m just proud of the mentality and the attitude. Round of 32, round of 16 is the moment in tournaments where you find a way to win. We did it with pure mentality.”

Both sides were awarded penalties during a ferocious contest that mirrored the stormy conditions outside the stadium. England fans packed pubs and bars across the country for the late-night fixture, with the Government extending licensing hours to 5am on Monday to accommodate the kick-off time.

Prince William, appearing on the New Heights podcast hosted by NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce, had already made his ambitions for the tournament clear. When Jason Kelce asked what a successful World Cup would look like, William replied simply: “I think winning it” — and confirmed he would fly to the United States for the final if England made it that far.