Harry Kane’s voice was still trembling as he attempted to sum up breathless, drama-laden 3-2 last-16 win over Mexico.
The England captain had just been belting out ‘Wonderwall’ with his equally euphoric team-mates, each of whom had fought tirelessly for a famous victory at the iconic Mexico City Stadium.
“It was a crazy game,” said Kane, smiling as he struggled to get his words out. “We had to find something... We found a way. We had incredible, unbelievable support from the fans. I’m speechless.”
It was little wonder Kane briefly appeared in a state of disbelief over what had just unfolded. In a tournament which has delivered one thrilling contest after another, England and Mexico served up a genuine World Cup classic.
The momentum swung one way then the other, with England surging into a 2-0 lead through Jude Bellingham’s brace, before Mexico pulled a goal back. The Three Lions then went down to ten men early in the second half when Jarell Quansah was sent off, before Kane fired his team 3-1 ahead from the penalty spot.
The drama was relentless, and Kane gave away a spot-kick at the other end, which Raul Jimenez converted to set up an incredible finale.
England defended with spirit, bravery and authority to hold on to their lead and book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.
“Every individual player had to dig deep and find something deep within themselves to get us through,” said Kane, who is now on six goals for the tournament. “There were so many heroes out there. I’m just so proud of the team and the way they fought. We found a way to get through it together. What a special night.
“We speak a lot about togetherness and desire and working for each other. But ultimately, you can talk, but you have to prove it. There’s no bigger test than being here, away from home, against Mexico, and having to fight through so many adversities. It just brings you closer together – more memories, more feelings, more emotions. I just can’t wait to enjoy this over the next couple of days with the boys.”
Before the last-16 tie, El Tri had played ten World Cup matches in Mexico City across the 1970, 1986 and 2026 editions and were unbeaten in those games.
England coach Thomas Tuchel highlighted the significance of his team's achievement.
"I’m very proud,” he said. “It was super-difficult. In the moments we thought we caught the momentum, we had setbacks. But when the going gets tough, they never give up, they never lose belief. We need to take this in. It was a crazy, crazy game. We left everything out there, every single one of us. It was one step more. Now it's full steam ahead."
Miami Stadium will stage England’s quarter-final clash with Norway on Saturday, 11 July. Stale Solbakken’s side progressed to the last eight with a stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil, with superstar striker Erling Haaland scoring a brace.
On the challenge England will face against the Scandinavians, Kane added. “It will be a tough game. They are a really good team with some dangerous players. They proved that, they had a great win today. “For now, let’s just enjoy this one [the win against Mexico]. Then the prep will start as usual and it’ll be another great game.”
Sources: FIFA Official
