Bellingham’s two goals steer England past Mexico in World Cup last 16
Jude Bellingham’s decisive performance against Mexico validates Thomas Tuchel’s successful shift to build England’s World Cup attack around the 23-year-old’s uncompromising mentality.
England defeated Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday in the World Cup last 16, driven by a two-goal masterclass from Jude Bellingham. The 23-year-old opened the scoring with a perfectly timed header from a Bukayo Saka cross before adding a second following a silky one-two with Harry Kane. He also delivered a heroic clearance to stop César Montes from equalising on the stroke of half-time, helping England hold out with 10 men.
The performance validated Thomas Tuchel’s tactical shift after a testy start to their relationship. Tuchel had previously wanted to establish a leadership hierarchy featuring Harry Kane and Declan Rice, a dynamic complicated by his infamous "repulsive" comment about Bellingham last year. However, Tuchel has recognised Bellingham as a rare talent and handed him the No 10 role, providing the clarity needed to harness his explosive ability.
Bellingham’s four goals in five games at this World Cup demonstrate how effectively Tuchel has channelled the player's immense will to win. The Real Madrid European champion has drawn comparisons to Novak Djokovic for his ability to charm off the pitch but become a terrifying, unstoppable force when facing hostility. Against Mexico, Bellingham actively relished the hostile Azteca atmosphere, standing with arms outstretched to absorb the crowd's animosity after his opening goal.
His campaign began with a spectacular solo goal to spark a surge against Croatia and has since featured vital last-ditch challenges against Ghana and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While he almost boiled over with frustration when England fell behind against Congo, that fierce competitive streak is now being weaponised for the team. Even his exaggerated reaction to losing possession against Mexico stemmed purely from a desire to score another stunning goal.
The evolution from a potentially isolating presence at Euro 2024 into a unifying leader marks a significant shift for the national side. Bellingham, who made his Birmingham City debut at 16 and had his shirt retired, is increasingly galvanising those around him, evidenced by his pitch-side pep talk to Djed Spence against Mexico. England will next face Norway on Saturday.
