Jude Bellingham delivered a masterclass at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday, scoring twice as 10-man England defeated Mexico 3-2 in a riveting World Cup round-of-16 clash. The victory sends England to the quarterfinals and keeps alive their pursuit of a first major trophy since 1966.
Bellingham leads the charge
England struck first when Bukayo Saka picked out Bellingham, who powered in a header for the first goal Mexico conceded in five World Cup matches. Harry Kane doubled the lead from the penalty spot before disaster struck — defender Jarell Quansah received a red card, leaving England a man down for more than half the match. Mexico capitalized through Raul Jimenez and Roberto Alvarado to level the score at 2-2.
Ten-man resolve
Down to 10 men and facing the altitude of Mexico City, England showed composure that has eluded past generations. Bellingham rose again, scoring the winner to secure a 3-2 victory and erase some of the painful memories of England's 1986 World Cup quarterfinal loss to Argentina at the same stadium, when Diego Maradona scored the 'Hand of God' goal.
Controversy follows the match
The game was preceded by controversy over US President Donald Trump's reported lobbying of FIFA regarding Folarin Balogun's red card suspension. The Belgian federation has challenged FIFA's decision to allow Balogun to play, adding a political layer to the tournament as the World Cup continues in North America.