Bellingham scores twice as 10-man England survive Mexico scare to reach World Cup quarter-finals

Jude Bellingham struck twice in under two minutes to fire England into the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, as Thomas Tuchel’s side held off a determined Mexico 3-2 despite finishing the match with 10 men.

Bellingham’s brace was the defining moment of a contest that grew increasingly nervy in the second half after England were reduced to 10 men. Mexico pushed hard for an equaliser but the Three Lions held firm to set up a last-eight meeting with Norway on Saturday, 11 June.

The Real Madrid midfielder was arguably England’s standout performer across the 90 minutes, turning a tight game in his side’s favour with two goals in rapid succession before the match entered its tense closing stages.

England’s place in the quarter-finals extends what has already been a significant tournament run for Tuchel’s squad, who will now prepare for a Norway side capable of causing problems at this level. The match on 11 June represents England’s next chance to push deeper into the competition.

Meanwhile, supporters with an eye on future fixtures can already look ahead to England’s UEFA Nations League campaign on home soil this autumn. The Three Lions open that competition against Spain at Wembley Stadium on 26 September, followed by a home tie against Czechia on 6 October.