Group winners Mexico and England collide in a blockbuster World Cup last-16 tie. Can El Tri's perfect record overcome the Three Lions' depth and tournament pedigree?
Summary
Mexico and England meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup last 16 in a clash between two group winners. Mexico swept Group A with three wins, while England topped Group B with two wins and a draw. The match promises to be a tactical battle between Mexico's high-pressing style and England's possession-based approach.
Mexico enter the knockout stage on a four-match winning streak, having beaten Ecuador, Czechia, South Korea, and South Africa in friendlies before the tournament. England, meanwhile, are unbeaten in four, with wins over Congo DR, Panama, and Croatia, plus a goalless draw against Ghana.
Team News & Form
Mexico have been in outstanding form, winning all three group matches without conceding a goal. Their 2-0 victory over Ecuador and 3-0 win over Czechia showcased their defensive solidity and attacking flair. Coach Diego Cocca has built a disciplined unit around veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who has been in inspired form.
England have been more inconsistent, but their 4-2 win over Croatia in their final group match demonstrated their firepower. Gareth Southgate's side have fitness concerns over Jude Bellingham (knock) and Bukayo Saka (hamstring), though both are expected to be available. The Three Lions will rely on their depth, with Phil Foden and Cole Palmer pushing for starts.
Key Players
Mexico: Hirving Lozano – The PSV winger has been Mexico's talisman, scoring twice in the group stage. His pace and direct running will test England's full-backs.
England: Harry Kane – England's all-time leading scorer has three goals in the tournament. His ability to drop deep and link play will be crucial against Mexico's compact defence.
Mexico: Edson Álvarez – The West Ham midfielder is the heartbeat of Mexico's midfield, breaking up play and initiating attacks. His duel with Declan Rice will be pivotal.
England: Jude Bellingham – The Real Madrid star has been England's best player, driving forward from midfield. His energy and creativity could unlock Mexico's backline.
Predicted Lineups
Mexico (4-3-3): Ochoa; Sánchez, Montes, Moreno, Gallardo; Álvarez, Herrera, Chávez; Lozano, Jiménez, Vega.
England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Foden, Grealish; Kane.
Key Battles
Lozano vs Shaw: Mexico's fastest attacker against England's left-back. Shaw's defensive discipline will be tested by Lozano's dribbling.
Álvarez vs Rice: Two defensive midfielders who dictate tempo. Whoever wins this midfield battle could decide the game.
Ochoa vs Kane: Mexico's veteran goalkeeper faces England's clinical striker. Ochoa's shot-stopping will be key to keeping England at bay.
Head-to-Head
These sides have met 10 times, with England winning four, Mexico two, and four draws. Their most famous encounter was the 2010 World Cup group stage, which ended 1-1. More recently, a 2019 friendly saw England win 4-0.
Score Prediction
Mexico's perfect group stage and defensive solidity make them a tough nut to crack, but England's superior individual quality and tournament experience should prevail in a tight contest. Expect a tense, tactical affair decided by a moment of brilliance. Prediction: Mexico 1-2 England
Where to Watch
Kickoff is at 00:00 UTC on July 6, 2026. UK viewers can watch live on BBC One and ITV, with streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. US viewers can tune in on Fox Sports and Telemundo, with streaming on Fubo and Peacock. For full fixture details, visit the fixtures page and standings.
