Wayne Rooney said England produced 'one of their greatest ever performances' to beat Mexico 3-2 and reach the World Cup quarter-finals, singling out Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice for special praise.
England survive red card and VAR drama
Thomas Tuchel's side recovered from a red card and VAR controversy to defeat co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City. Jude Bellingham scored twice before half-time, but Julian Quinones pulled one back for Mexico after England failed to clear a free-kick.
England right-back Jarell Quansah was sent off early in the second half following a VAR review for a high challenge. Harry Kane restored England's two-goal lead from the penalty spot after Anthony Gordon was fouled by Mexican goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
Nervous finish but England hold on
Mexico won a penalty of their own after another VAR review penalised Kane, and Raul Jimenez converted to set up a tense final 30 minutes. The hosts launched repeated attacks, but England held on to knock out the co-hosts.
Rooney said on BBC One: 'That was one of England's greatest results and performances. The attitude, the grit, the desire – they had it all. The whole team were excellent but the big players stood up tonight – Jordan Pickford had his best game, the two centre backs were really good, ahead of the defence Declan Rice was excellent, and Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane really turned up tonight.'
Shearer also full of praise
Alan Shearer added: 'Every single player had the right attitude. Everything that could have gone against them, they got past all of that and deserved it. That is an incredible performance from start to finish.'
England will face Norway in the quarter-finals after Norway beat Brazil in the round of 16.
