FIFA World Cup 2026: "We overcame every obstacle," says coach Thomas Tuchel after England qualify for last eight
Mexico City, July 6
England head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his side's resilience and mentality after the Three Lions defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, according to The Athletic.
England secured a hard-fought victory despite playing much of the second half with 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card, setting up a high-voltage quarterfinal clash with Norway.
Reflecting on the performance, Tuchel said his players had shown tremendous character to overcome every challenge during the match.
"My emotions are mixed. I'm proud of the mentality and attitude. This is the moment in tournaments where you find a way to win. It was hard, but we did it with pure mentality. We overcame every obstacle. It's a very special night for us," Tuchel said, as quoted by The Athletic.
The England manager, however, revealed that Jordan Henderson had suffered a wrist injury and was taken to hospital. For those unversed, Henderson suffered an injury while celebrating after England's memorable win over co-hosts Mexico.
"I'm sad because Jordan (Henderson) injured his wrist. It's quite serious. He's in hospital. It doesn't fit with the rest of the evening. I don't know the procedure," he said.
Tuchel also thanked England supporters for their backing during the dramatic contest.
"I just want to say thank you if you stayed up and sent us your energy. We feel it 100 per cent. There is so much to love about this team. We will now go full steam ahead and use this energy to keep pushing," he added.
England defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash to book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.
Jude Bellingham scored twice and was named Player of the Match, while becoming the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, according to FIFA.
Despite playing most of the second half with 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card, England held off Mexico's late fightback to keep their hopes of a second World Cup title alive.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who follows football a lot, I'm both impressed and a bit worried for England. Henderson's wrist injury sounds serious - that celebration might have cost them a key midfielder. But credit to Tuchel for keeping the team focused after the red card. Norway in quarters will be a huge test, they've been playing some beautiful football.
🤔 Really feel bad for Mexico - they were playing at home, crowd behind them, but those defensive lapses cost them dearly. England's first half was clinical but second half became a survival game. Tuchel's tactics after Quansah's red card were spot on though. One thing I've noticed: Jude Bellingham celebrates like he's born for these big moments. World class!
Honestly, I think Tuchel is being too emotional. Yes, they won, but playing with 10 men for 45+ minutes against a team like Mexico is reckless defending. Quansah's tackle was unnecessary. And Henderson injuring himself celebrating? That's just poor luck and poor judgment combined. Norway will punish this England team if they make similar mistakes. 🧐
Living in Delhi and woke up at 3am to watch this - totally worth it! The atmosphere at Estadio Azteca looked electric, but England showed incredible composure. Bellingham's first goal was a worldie, and Pickford made some crucial saves. The quarter-final against Norway will be a real chess match - Haaland vs England defense. Can't wait! ⚽
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