Introduction
England winger Anthony Gordon has brushed off an explicit heckle from Mexico manager Javier Aguirre during their last-16 World Cup clash, describing it as "just a bit of fun" and even a "compliment". The incident, which went viral on social media, occurred during a first-half hydration break in England's dramatic 3-2 victory at the Azteca Stadium.
The incident and Gordon's reaction
During the pause, Aguirre first exchanged words with Jude Bellingham before turning his attention to Gordon, who was near the touchline. The 67-year-old shouted an explicit remark, but both men laughed it off.
"I remembered it," Gordon said. "It's just a bit of fun. With all the heat and tension around the game, it was a bit of fun. I'd just run the full-back down the line so it was a bit of a compliment from him. That's how I took it anyway."
Gordon, who completed a high-profile move from Newcastle United to Barcelona this summer, took the exchange in good humour. He added that Aguirre "seemed like a good guy" and that he enjoyed the banter with both him and Bellingham throughout the match.
Match recap: England survive late drama
The encounter was one of the most entertaining of the tournament so far. Bellingham netted twice to give England a 2-0 lead before Julian Quinones pulled one back for the co-hosts. After Jarell Quansah saw red, Harry Kane converted a penalty to restore the two-goal cushion. Mexico's Raul Jimenez then scored a late spot-kick to set up a tense finale, but England held on to book a quarter-final spot.
The match produced several other viral moments, including Kane losing his voice during a post-match interview and defender John Stones feigning injury in a light-hearted exchange.
Quarter-final focus: Norway awaits
England now turn their attention to a quarter-final against Norway on Saturday, 11 July at 22:00 BST in Miami. Coverage will be available on BBC One in the UK. However, Thomas Tuchel's side are facing a defensive concern, with Marc Guehi a serious doubt due to a hamstring strain picked up against Mexico. The Manchester City centre-back did not train on Thursday, and a late decision will be made on his fitness. Dan Burn is on standby to step in.
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Gordon laughed off an explicit comment from Mexico boss Javier Aguirre, calling it a "compliment".
- The incident went viral alongside other funny moments from England's 3-2 victory over Mexico.
- England's quarter-final against Norway is set for Saturday, with Marc Guehi a major injury doubt.
- Javier Aguirre has since left his role as Mexico manager, replaced by Rafael Marquez.
Quick Facts
Match: England 3-2 Mexico (World Cup last 16)
Goals (England): Jude Bellingham (2), Harry Kane (pen)
Goals (Mexico): Julian Quinones, Raul Jimenez (pen)
Red card: Jarell Quansah (England)
Next fixture: Norway vs England, quarter-final, 11 July, 22:00 BST, Miami