The Controversial Calls in England's Last-16 Thriller
Azteca Stadium.
The Penalty Against England
Later in the half, a seemingly innocuous coming together in the England box saw Harry Kane's foot make contact with Mexico player's foot. It is a little bit similar to the [Luka] Modric kick which England got a penalty for in the first group game. Kane is unaware of the player coming in behind.'
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart concurred, stating on BBC One: 'I think the referee has come to the right decision on all three [both penalties and the red card]. I felt every single one... as soon as I saw the replays, my heart was in my mouth. Quansah deserved to go, Kane didn't get the ball and Gordon [for the England penalty] got to the ball first.'
Key Takeaways
- Jarell Quansah's red card was the correct call for serious foul play, with his studs making dangerous contact on Jesus Gallardo's shin.
- The penalty awarded to Mexico was justified after Harry Kane inadvertently kicked Brian Gutierrez in the area.
- Expert analysis from former FIFA referee Darren Cann and pundit Joe Hart confirmed all major decisions were correct.
- Despite playing with ten men for over half an hour, England held on to secure a dramatic quarter-final berth.
Quick Facts
Match: England 3-2 Mexico, World Cup 2026 last 16
Red card: Jarell Quansah (54') – studs-up tackle on Jesus Gallardo
Penalty for Mexico: Harry Kane foul on Brian Gutierrez, converted by Raul Jimenez (67')
Referee: Alireza Faghani (Iran)
Source: BBC Sport
