Harry Kane Shines as England Advances in FIFA World Cup 2026

In a thrilling encounter, England triumphed over Mexico 3-2 in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Harry Kane scoring a crucial penalty. President Trump praised Kane's performance, while Jude Bellingham set a record as the youngest player to reach 10 World Cup appearances. Despite being reduced to 10 men, England held on for victory, setting up a quarter-final clash against Norway. Read on for detailed match highlights and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 10:11 IST

Trump Lauds Kane's Performance

President of the United States, Donald Trump, expressed admiration for England's captain, Harry Kane, following his impressive display in the Round of 16 match against Mexico during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Kane was instrumental in England's thrilling 3-2 win, scoring a crucial penalty in the second half after Anthony Gordon was fouled in the box. This goal marked Kane's sixth in the tournament, securing England's spot in the quarter-finals.

Kane's Remarkable Season

In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump referred to Kane as a 'great player.' He noted Kane's continued excellence, highlighting that the striker not only scored but also assisted during the match, bringing his total to 81 goal contributions in 63 appearances for both club and country in the 2025-26 season, which includes 73 goals and eight assists. Notably, Kane became the first player since 1966 to both score and concede a penalty in the same World Cup match, according to OptaJoe.

Bellingham Breaks World Cup Record

England's victory over Mexico also saw Jude Bellingham set a new record, becoming the youngest player to achieve 10 FIFA World Cup appearances at just 23 years and six days old. He surpassed the previous record held by Argentina's Mario Kempes, who was 23 years and 334 days during the 1978 World Cup. Bellingham's performance earned him the Player of the Match title.

Ten-Man England Holds On

Despite facing a challenging situation with only 10 players for much of the second half after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute, England managed to secure their place in the quarter-finals against Norway. The match was played in front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Mexico, who were eager for their team to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in 40 years.

Match Highlights

1. Mexico started strong, controlling possession early on.

2. England struck first with two quick goals from Bellingham, the first from a header off Bukayo Saka's cross and the second from a setup by Kane.

3. Mexico responded with a goal from Julian Quinones before halftime.

4. England's Nico O'Reilly hit the post, and Quansah received a red card for a foul.

5. Kane scored another penalty after Gordon was fouled by Mexico's goalkeeper, Raul Rangel.

6. Mexico was awarded a penalty after a VAR review, with Jimenez converting to make it 3-2.

7. Despite relentless pressure from Mexico for an equalizer, England's defense held firm to secure the win.

Next Match

England will face Norway in the quarter-finals on July 11 in Miami.