Hart's Studio Stint
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart was full of praise for the first-half display in the FIFA World Cup 2026 last-16 clash between Mexico and England, lamenting his position in the BBC's Salford studio rather than the electric Estadio Azteca.
Speaking at half-time with the score at 2-1 to England, Hart exclaimed: "This is an absolute belter of a game, I wish I was in that stadium." The Azteca was rocking as Jude Bellingham's quickfire double put England in command before Julian Quinones pulled one back for the co-hosts.
Bellingham's Rapid Double
England flew out of the blocks and stunned the home crowd with two goals in as many minutes. First, Bellingham rose highest to head home a back-post cross, and moments later the Real Madrid star doubled his tally with a clinical finish. The 23-year-old's brace silenced the passionate Mexican support, but the hosts refused to lay down.
Quinones' strike on the stroke of half-time brought the crowd back to life and set up a mouthwatering second period. Hart's commentary perfectly captured the mood: "I wish I was in that stadium," he repeated, underlining the sheer spectacle unfolding in Mexico City.
Second-Half Drama: Red Card and Penalties
The second half produced even more fireworks. England were reduced to ten men when Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card after a VAR review for a reckless studs-up challenge on Jesus Gallardo.
"It is a clear red card," said Darren Cann, the 2010 World Cup final assistant referee.
Despite the man disadvantage, England extended their lead when Harry Kane coolly converted a penalty to make it 3-1. But Mexico were handed a controversial spot-kick of their own, which Raul Jimenez buried to set up a tense finale. England held on, though, to secure a 3-2 win and a place in the quarter-finals.
Key Takeaways
- England's rapid start through Bellingham proved decisive in a thrilling encounter.
- Joe Hart's candid admission from the BBC studio highlighted the electric atmosphere at the Azteca.
- Quansah's red card and the disputed Mexico penalty added high drama to an already pulsating tie.
- England's resilience with ten men shows their growing maturity under pressure.
Quick Facts
Final Score: England 3–2 Mexico
Goals: Bellingham (2), Quinones, Kane, Jimenez
Red Card: Quansah (England) 54'
Penalties Awarded: 2 (1 England, 1 Mexico)
This article originally appeared on FourFourTwo.
