It was the first time any nation had beaten Mexico in a World Cup match at the famous venue, making the result even more significant given the atmosphere and history surrounding the stadium.
After a thunderstorm delayed kick-off, Thomas Tuchel‘s side made a blistering start once play finally got underway.
Jude Bellingham inspired England with two first-half goals before Mexico hit back through Julián Quiñones just before the interval.
England’s task became even tougher early in the second half when Jarell Quansah was sent off, forcing the Three Lions to play with 10 men for more than half an hour.
Harry Kane calmly converted a penalty to restore England’s two-goal advantage before Raúl Jiménez scored from the spot for Mexico, setting up a tense finish.
Jordan Pickford produced several outstanding saves as England held firm to secure a famous victory and a quarter-final meeting with Norway.
The odds were stacked against Tuchel’s side, and much was made of the home advantage given to Mexico, especially the never-ending discussion about altitude, but England found a way to get it done on a seismic night in North America.
The celebrations that followed reflected just how much the result meant.
However, they were soon marred by worrying news involving Jordan Henderson.
England learn Jordan Henderson update after ‘freak’ Mexico injury
The experienced Brentford ace suffered a serious injury during the post-match celebrations, which resulted in Henderson being stretched off with oxygen support.
Medical staff quickly rushed to his aid before he was stretchered away and taken to hospital.
He was seen falling from the advertising boards and badly injuring his arm, with talkSPORT’s Alex Crook reporting that Henderson’s World Cup is over.
The 36-year-old has played what is very likely to be his last ever World Cup match for England, and is now set for an operation on a broken radius.
Although Henderson has not been a regular starter at this World Cup, his absence will still be felt inside the England camp.
Jordan Henderson injury a major blow for England
Few players in international football possess his experience, with the former Liverpool captain having featured in multiple major tournaments and earned well over 80 caps for his country.
Throughout his career he has built a reputation as a leader who helps maintain standards both on and off the pitch.
That influence is particularly valuable during the latter stages of a World Cup, where the mental demands become just as important as the football itself.
Younger players often speak about Henderson’s communication, professionalism and willingness to guide teammates through high-pressure situations.
England have enough quality in midfield to cope without him on the pitch, but replacing his personality is far more difficult.
As Tuchel prepares his squad for a huge quarter-final against Norway, losing one of the dressing room’s senior figures is an unfortunate blow.
Henderson may not have been guaranteed many more minutes on the field, yet his leadership, experience and calming presence around the squad could prove just as important as any tactical contribution during England’s pursuit of World Cup glory.
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