England booked their place in the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals in dramatic, history-making fashion with a heroic 3-2 victory over Mexico.
For all the resilience and endeavour Thomas Tuchel’s players demonstrated in the Azteca cauldron, it was his decision-making and in-game management that ultimately got his side over the line.
Ridiculed for his squad selection and overlooking players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer, his faith in those he trusted to dig deep was thoroughly vindicated.
Switching to a back five invited pressure, but in Dan Burn and John Stones, Tuchel had two towers of power ready to maintain composure.
The decision to remove Elliot Anderson and trust a booked Declan Rice to see out the game was another masterstroke. Rice, nursing injuries, not only snuffed out fires but still found energy to drive England forward.
While the victory was founded on unity and spirit, England’s two-goal first-half cushion came from some of their most cohesive attacking play of the tournament.
Bukayo Saka’s stealth and Anthony Gordon’s work rate were key in Jude Bellingham’s brace.
Further improvements will be needed against Norway and beyond, but after last night’s heroics, England must now be considered serious favourites to go all the way.
