[Anchor]

England, the birthplace of football, has advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating the host nation, Mexico, led by a multi-goal performance from Bellingham. It was a hard-fought victory achieved despite being a man down and facing the intense support of the passionate Mexican home crowd.

Bae Jeonghun reports.

[Reporter]

In a stadium packed with over 80,000 fans—a sacred ground for Mexican football—England initially struggled, conceding control early on. However, they shifted the momentum late in the first half with two strikes from Bellingham.

In the 36th minute, Bellingham broke the deadlock by connecting with a cross from Saka for a diving header. Just two minutes later, he capitalized on a counterattack, converting a cross from Kane into another goal to take control of the match.

Mexico's response was formidable.

Four minutes later, during a free-kick situation, the ball deflected off an English player and fell to Quinones, who narrowed the gap with a spectacular volley.

In the second half, England defender Quansah was sent off, giving Mexico a golden opportunity. Instead, it was England that extended their lead. Gordon won a penalty during a counterattack, and Kane fired a powerful shot to record his 6th goal of the tournament.

As some agitated Mexican spectators threw debris onto the pitch, security personnel had to use shields to protect the players.

Mexico attempted another comeback with a penalty goal from Jimenez in the 69th minute, but they were repeatedly thwarted by England's desperate defensive efforts and saves by goalkeeper Pickford, ultimately accepting a 3-2 defeat.

Bellingham, the hero of England's victory who ran tirelessly for 90 minutes, appeared completely exhausted, lacking even the energy to celebrate when the match ended.

[Bellingham / England National Team Forward: The only conversation we had this week was about how difficult it would be to face a great team in such an incredibly overwhelming atmosphere. That is why this victory is undoubtedly the greatest achievement of my England national team career.]

Mexico, which had remained undefeated with 8 wins and 2 draws in World Cup matches played at the Mexico City stadium prior to today's (July 6) game, suffered its first loss and was left in tears.

Reported by Bae Jeonghun | Video by Ha Seong-won