England’s dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 not only secured a place in the quarter-finals but also made television history in many countries. The blockbuster clash at the iconic Estadio Azteca became the most watched FIFA World Cup match of the 21st century in Mexico while also setting new audience records in the United States.The high-octane encounter had everything a World Cup classic required, five goals, a red card, non-stop drama and a nail-biting finish, as Harry Kane’s side held on despite playing with 10 men in the final 30 minutes.
England survived a late fightback in Mexico
England reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after beating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 16 clash at the Estadio Azteca. Jude Bellingham scored two straight points before Julián Quiñones pulled one back for Mexico before halftime. England were reduced to 10 men after Jarell Quansah’s red card early in the second half, but Harry Kane converted a penalty to make it 3-1. Raúl Jiménez also scored from the spot to set up a nervy finish, but the Three Lions went on to book a quarter-final clash against Norway on July 11.
The game broke television records
The extraordinary drama has been translated to unprecedented television audiences across North America and Europe.The official management of FIFA Media X posted, “Records break: Mexico’s dramatic match against England became the country’s most watched FIFA World Cup match of the 21st century, with an average audience of 36 million across Televisa (20.7M) and Azteca (15.3M). The figures will be published after the tournament.
England’s next challenge
Norway and England will face off in a historic FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-final clash at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions are riding high after a legendary, 10-man 3-2 win over co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca. Meanwhile, Ståle Solbakken’s underdog Norway side entered uncharted territory, contesting their first ever World Cup quarter-final after Erling Haaland’s late brace stunned Brazil. The winner of this match will advance to the semi-finals to face Argentina or Switzerland. The match starts on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM local time (Sunday, July 12 at 2:30 AM IST).