Jude Bellingham refused to discuss the referee after England's dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup quarter-finals, stating that he does not want to risk a ban for the next match. The Three Lions progressed to the last eight after a tense encounter at the Azteca Stadium, which featured two penalties, a red card, and controversial officiating decisions.
Bellingham's brace and early lead
Bellingham scored twice in two minutes to give England a 2-0 lead in the first half. Julian Quinones pulled one back for Mexico before the break, but England's advantage was tested when Jarell Quansah was sent off on 54 minutes for a dangerous challenge on Jesus Gallardo. The referee initially did not award a foul, but VAR intervened, leading to the Bayer Leverkusen defender's dismissal.
Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot on the hour-mark after Anthony Gordon was fouled by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel. However, further drama ensued when Kane was adjudged to have fouled Brian Gutierrez in his own box while attempting a clearance. VAR again stepped in, allowing Raul Jimenez to score from the spot. Thomas Tuchel's side defended resolutely against relentless attacks to secure a quarter-final berth against Norway on Saturday.
Bellingham's cautious response
Speaking in Spanish after the match, the Real Madrid star said: 'About the referee, I want to play the next game, which is why I'm not saying anything.' He praised Mexico, adding: 'Mexico is a very strong team and they play with a lot of heart. The last two or three days here were incredible. The Azteca is an historic stadium and it was a pleasure playing them.'
Tuchel's criticism of officials
England boss Thomas Tuchel was less restrained, blasting the officiating. 'They're just not good enough. The referees are just not good enough,' he told the BBC. 'The fourth officials are just not good enough. That's the bottom line. Did I see that right that three of the VAR officials are from South America? In a match like this? I think so, that's what I saw. If that is correct… VAR overturns the decision for the [Mexico] penalty. Is it a clear and obvious error? For sure not. But VAR get involved. Earlier he doesn't even give a foul and they overturn it and give us a red card. The referees are not good enough.'
Harry Kane also expressed frustration, saying of the penalty he conceded: 'I tried to get to the ball first, but it was one of those days. The referee called everything against us, but in the end it didn't matter.'
Looking ahead
England will face Norway in Miami on Saturday for a place in the semi-finals. The other quarter-final in that half of the draw features Argentina against Egypt and Switzerland taking on Colombia in the last 16 on Tuesday.
