Mexico 2 – 3 England – Match Analysis

What a game, what a performance, what an effort, what a nerve wracking, stressful, draining and eventful match this was.

A Bellingham brace and Kane penalty saw England beat Mexico 3 – 2 to secure a quarter-final spot against Norway.

The right-back issues continued with Quansah being sent off meaning England had to play almost the entire second half with ten men. The score was 2 – 1 to England at the time so far from ideal when playing Mexico in Mexico.

The ten men of England wasted no time in making it 3 – 1 with a Kane penalty but shortly afterwards he gave away a penalty which Mexico converted.

It was then backs to wall stuff as England brought on defenders Stones, Burn and Spence to go five at the back as Mexico threw everything they could at England.

Mexico relentlessly put crosses into the box which England dealt with almost with ease. Substitutes Stones and Burn particularly excellent in clearing the danger. Pickford was even better as he came and punched or caught or saved and was more like the Pickford that we have been used to seeing in major tournaments.

Every player worked their socks off and played well. It’s easy to forget that at one point we were 2 – 0 up and playing some terrific football.

It is hard to single players out on nights like this when they have all played so well but I feel a few need highlighting.

Gordon has surely claimed that left wing spot after his last two performances. He won the penalty in this one, but his defensive work has to be admired as much as his attacking contribution. The way he and Spence doubled up in second half meant Mexico had little joy down our left-hand side.

Kane got himself on the score sheet from the penalty spot, but what was more impressive was his pass for Bellingham’s second, in a position where most strikers would shoot.

Bellingham was exceptional throughout. His work rate and desire are unbelievable when he is in that mood.

He scored two goals, and his late runs into the box means that he is always a goal threat, but that last ditch tackle was as good as a goal. He has been a revelation this tournament compared with the last and credit must go to Tuchel for that.

As for Tuchel, his substitutions were absolutely spot on in terms of personnel and timing. I give Southgate a huge amount of credit for what he achieved with England, but I think we would have lost this game with Southgate at the helm.

Onto Norway next and that is no easy feat. I said prior to the game that I would prefer to play Brazil. Keep Haaland quiet and we should come out on top but that is easier said than done.

Who plays at right back is the continuing dilemma. Moving Konsa there and bringing Stones or Burn in at centre back seems the most logical solution. James could be fit but I’m not sure I would risk him from the start.

COME ON ENGLAND