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06.07.2026.

10:35

Best match of the World Cup – England break the "Azteka" curse to reach the quarterfinals!

England have reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup after defeating hosts Mexico 3–2 (2–1).

Izvor: B92.sport

Autor: B92.sport

B92.sport
Best match of the World Cup – England break the "Azteka" curse to reach the quarterfinals!
Wu Wei / Xinhua News / Profimedia

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The match at the iconic “Azteca” stadium, in front of nearly 90,000 spectators, can legitimately be considered one of the best—if not the best—of this World Cup.

It had everything: a one-hour delay to kick-off due to a severe storm, five goals, two penalties, a red card, several VAR reviews, drama until the final whistle, and in the end a major celebration for England, who defeated Mexico at the “Azteca” for the first time in World Cup history.

The hero of the “Three Lions” was Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in the closing stages of the first half to pave the way to the quarterfinals.

First, in the 36th minute, he headed in an excellent cross from Bukayo Saka, and just two minutes later he capitalized on a defensive error, played a one-two with Harry Kane, and made it 2–0.

Best match of the World Cup – England break the Azteka curse to reach the quarterfinals!
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The hosts refused to give up. Julián Quiñones pulled one back in the 42nd minute to make it 2–1 and restore hope before halftime, and Mexico had two more big chances before the break, but Jordan Pickford kept England’s lead intact.

The second half brought a new wave of chaos. England were reduced to ten men in the 53rd minute after Jarell Quansah was sent off following a VAR review for a reckless challenge.

However, the numerical disadvantage did not unsettle Thomas Tuchel’s side.

Just five minutes later, the Mexico goalkeeper brought down Anthony Gordon inside the penalty area, and Harry Kane converted confidently from the spot to make it 3–1.

Nothing was over even then.

After another VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Mexico, and in the 68th minute Raúl Jiménez converted to make it 3–2 and bring the match back to life.

What followed was a full-scale siege on England’s goal.

In the closing stages, including 11 minutes of added time, Mexico threw everything forward in search of an equaliser and extra time, but England held firm under enormous pressure and managed to see out a dramatic victory.

With this victory, England also broke one of the World Cup’s strongest traditions. Mexico had never previously lost a World Cup match at the “Azteca” stadium, where they had recorded eight wins and two draws in their previous ten games.

There were issues even before kickoff. Due to a storm accompanied by heavy rain and thunder, the start of the match was delayed by one hour, while England players had also publicly pointed out difficult conditions caused by the altitude of 2,200 meters, as well as various organizational challenges during their stay.

England will face Norway in the quarterfinals, after Norway caused a major upset by eliminating Brazil. The quarterfinal clash is scheduled for Saturday at 11 p.m. in Miami.

The match at the “Azteca” stadium was followed live via B92.sport’s live blog.

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2026 FIFA World Cup

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