‘Iconic match at iconic stadium’ – England win down to ‘pure will’

‘Iconic match at iconic stadium’ – England win down to ‘pure will’ Image source, AFP via Getty ImagesImage caption, England are now three wins away from lifting the World CupByGary RoseBBC Sport journalistPublished10 minutes agoHarry Kane’s voice in his post-match interview summed up the nature of England’s epic World Cup win against Mexico at a raucous Azteca Stadium.Kane converted a penalty as England won a pulsating last-16 tie – and by the time he spoke to BBC Sport after the game, he was audibly exhausted from the effort he had put into the celebrations that followed the 3-2 win.”I’ve just been singing, I can’t really talk,” the Bayern Munich striker reported. “The occasion, the team, everything against us, we found a way.”England needed to find a way despite racing into a comfortable lead thanks to Jude Bellingham’s two goals in as many minutes.Mexico pulled one back and Thomas Tuchel’s side then had Jarell Quansah sent off but Kane’s penalty ultimately proved decisive despite Mexico making it 3-2 with more than 20 minutes left.It was an England performance for the ages and one that might give their supporters more belief after some lacklustre displays until their arrival in Mexico.”If a team has heart and belief, then it’s this team,” Tuchel told BBC Sport.”They did it on pure will. No words. That’s an iconic match, an iconic stadium. We overcame so much adversity. Very proud.”Bellingham produced one of his best performances for England, putting in a colossal effort in defence as well as his two goals.”It’s the best night of my England career. Just unbelievable. I can’t put it into words right now,” the Real Madrid midfielder reported.”This is the thing I dream of being a part of this England squad – bringing my country together, giving them nights like this that they will enjoy for many years to come. “I am so proud of this team. What we have done is spectacular.”Those fans back in England had to show their own version of committed, with inclement weather delaying kick-off until 02:00 BST that meant the game did not finish until after 04:00.Bellingham’s words of advice for those fans? “Have another shot and text your bosses to say you’re not coming in!” he joked. “That’s about it.”Figure caption, ‘I’m speechless’ – Kane reacts to England’s victory over Mexico’One of the greatest results in England’s World Cup history’ as Three Lions beat Mexico