Jude Bellingham Matches Diego Maradona's Iconic World Cup Record in England's Win Over Mexico

Jude Bellingham produced a record-breaking performance as England defeated hosts Mexico 3-2 in a pulsating FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash at the iconic Azteca Stadium. The Real Madrid midfielder matched a feat last achieved by Diego Maradona four decades ago, while England shattered Mexico's formidable World Cup record at the historic venue to book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.

Bellingham became the first player since Maradona in 1986 to score twice in a FIFA World Cup match at the Azteca Stadium, leading England to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico and sealing a quarter-final clash against Norway on July 11, according to ESPN.

Maradona had achieved the landmark against Belgium in the 1986 FIFA World Cup semi-final.

The victory was historic for England in more ways than one. They became the first team in FIFA World Cup history to defeat Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, where the hosts had remained unbeaten across 10 World Cup matches.

Before facing England, Mexico had lost only two competitive matches at the stadium since first playing there in 1966, compiling an imposing record of 70 wins and 17 draws from 89 matches.

England captain Harry Kane also etched his name into the record books by converting a penalty to equal Gary Lineker's tally of six goals, making the pair the joint-highest English scorers in FIFA World Cup knockout-stage history.

The victory also sent England into their 11th FIFA World Cup quarter-final. Only Brazil (15) and Germany (14) have reached this stage more often.

England hold firm despite red card as Mexico fall short

England struck decisively after weathering Mexico's early dominance. Bellingham opened the scoring with a header from Bukayo Saka's cross before doubling the advantage moments later after Harry Kane capitalised on a Mexican turnover and provided the assist.

Mexico pulled one back before halftime when Julian Quinones finished from close range, while Jordan Pickford produced a crucial save to deny Raul Jimenez an equaliser.

The contest intensified after the break. Nico O'Reilly struck the post before England were reduced to 10 men in the 54th minute when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card following his challenge on Jesus Gallardo.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, England restored their two-goal cushion after Anthony Gordon was brought down inside the penalty area by goalkeeper Raul Rangel. Kane calmly converted the resulting spot-kick for his sixth goal of the tournament.

Mexico were later awarded a penalty following a VAR review that ruled Kane had fouled Brian Gutierrez. Jimenez converted from the spot to reduce the deficit to 3-2 and set up a tense finale.

Roared on by the home crowd, Mexico pressed relentlessly for an equaliser that would have forced extra time. However, England defended resolutely to secure their place in the last eight.

Historic night produces multiple milestones

The defeat marked another unwanted record for Mexico. It was the first time they had conceded three goals at the Azteca Stadium since a 4-3 loss to Brazil in August 1999.

Remarkably, Mexico conceded more goals against England (three) than they had across their previous 10 FIFA World Cup matches at the Azteca combined (two).

England will now travel to Miami to face Norway in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals on July 11.

(With inputs from ANI)