​England’s 3-2 win over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium will be remembered as one of the standout moments of their World Cup campaign, even if the tournament ultimately ended in familiar heartbreak.
There is no easy way to dress up a World Cup semi-final defeat, especially when it comes against major footballing rivals. For England supporters, the pain is even sharper because this loss adds to a growing list of near misses in recent years. The men’s team have now suffered European Championship final defeats in 2021 and 2024, while their 2018 World Cup journey also ended at the semi-final stage. Another opportunity to reach a global final has slipped away, and the manner of the defeat will understandably sting for some time.
Yet, despite the disappointment, England’s 2026 World Cup campaign should not be viewed only through the lens of failure. There were clear reasons for optimism, from the individual brilliance of key players to the continued consistency of reaching the latter stages of major international tournaments. This was not the ending England wanted, but it was another reminder that they remain among the strongest teams in world football.
One of the biggest positives was the goalscoring form of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Having two genuine Golden Boot contenders in the same squad is a major asset at any World Cup, and England benefited greatly from their cutting edge in front of goal. Kane arrived at the tournament in outstanding form after a prolific season with Bayern Munich, where he had been scoring at a remarkable rate. It was no surprise to see him make an immediate impact, starting with two goals in the opening match against Croatia before adding four more as England advanced through the competition.
Bellingham’s scoring run was perhaps less predictable. After recovering from shoulder surgery, he had endured a quieter season at Real Madrid compared with the spectacular standards he set in his previous campaigns. But on the World Cup stage, he stepped up when England needed him most. His goals were not just impressive in number; they were decisive. Kane’s two goals against DR Congo rescued England from a potentially humiliating early exit in the round of 32, while Bellingham’s double against Norway powered the team into the semi-finals.
Both players reached six goals before the third-place play-off, keeping them in contention for the tournament’s Golden Boot. With Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi sitting on eight goals, Kane and Bellingham still had a chance to close the gap. More importantly for England, their partnership underlined the attacking quality available to the national team. Kane has yet to confirm whether he will continue through to the 2030 World Cup, but supporters should at least see the pair combine again at Euro 2028.
Another reason for encouragement is England’s ability to reach yet another major tournament semi-final. In the modern era, the expectation around England has changed dramatically. Not long ago, reaching the final four of a World Cup or European Championship felt like a rare achievement. Before the 2018 World Cup, England had not gone beyond a World Cup quarter-final since 1990. Before the Euro 2020 final against Italy, they had not progressed past the quarter-finals of a European Championship since Euro 1996.
That context matters. While the lack of a trophy remains a frustration, England have now reached either a semi-final or final in four of the last five major tournaments. That level of consistency represents a major shift. England are no longer a team hoping for a favourable draw or relying on isolated moments of inspiration. They have become regular contenders, capable of competing deep into elite international competitions.
This World Cup also proved that England can perform in difficult and demanding conditions. The heat and humidity presented major challenges throughout the tournament, and the team had to manage energy levels, recovery and tactical discipline in environments that were far from comfortable. Matches in intense climates tested the squad physically and mentally, but England showed resilience and adaptability.
Their victory over Mexico at the Azteca was a prime example. Playing in one of the most iconic and intimidating stadiums in world football, England produced a thrilling 3-2 win that showcased character as well as quality. It was the kind of result that will remain a highlight of the campaign, not only because of the scoreline but because of the circumstances in which it was achieved.
There are still questions for England to answer. They must find a way to turn strong tournament runs into silverware, and they must learn how to manage the defining moments in semi-finals and finals. Talent alone has not been enough to get them over the line. But the foundations remain strong. With Kane, Bellingham and a talented supporting cast, England have the tools to challenge again.
The disappointment of another semi-final defeat is real, and supporters are right to feel frustrated. However, this World Cup was not without progress, pride or promise. England’s campaign featured memorable wins, elite individual performances and further proof that they belong at the top end of international football. The wait for a major trophy goes on, but there are still plenty of reasons to believe this team’s story is far from finished.