Breathless first half goes to England: 2-1 up

After the hour-long delay caused by the severe storm at Mexico City's Estadio Banorte, the game that finally kicked off produced a breathtaking first half. In front of 87,000 fans who packed the national cathedral of Mexican football, England lead 2-1 at the break, with Jude Bellingham the undoubted star of the opening period.

The match was tight and tactically cautious for long stretches, but England found their moment of explosion. In the 36th minute, Bellingham met a superb Saka cross from the left with a precise header to break the deadlock. Just two minutes later, in the 38th minute, Bellingham was on the move again, controlling a Pickford ball and finishing across goal to make it 2-0. The home stands fell briefly silent — but Mexico refused to fold.

A magnificent attacking move in the 42nd minute restored hope. Alvarado's run along the touchline created the space, Quinones burst into the box and drove the ball powerfully home to make it 1-2. The goal lifted all 87,000 Mexicans to their feet and the half ended in the atmosphere of a cup final. The statistics reflect a genuinely competitive contest: Mexico had 63 per cent of possession, while England's xG of 0.69 converted into two clinical finishes.

Heading into the second half, Tuchel still has Rashford, Eze and Stones among his bench options. After an evening that started with a storm delay and has since delivered a pulsating half of football, Mexico City is hosting a night for the ages. Everything can still change in 45 minutes.

First-Half Stats
Score: 1-2 (Quinones 42' / Bellingham 36', 38') · Possession: Mexico 63% – England 37%
Expected goals (xG): England 0.69 – Mexico 0.45 · Shots: Mexico 7 – England 3
Big chances: England 2 – Mexico 1

Image: Goal