England beat Mexico, Norway shock Brazil to reach quarter-finals — Pajhwok

KABUL, July 6 (Pajhwok): England and Norway booked their places in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after registering hard-fought victories over Mexico and Brazil respectively in the Round of 16 on Sunday. England defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic encounter at the Azteca Stadium despite playing much of the second half with 10 men. The match, delayed for about an hour due to thunderstorms, produced one of the tournament’s most entertaining contests. Jude Bellingham gave England a strong start with two quick first-half goals before Julián Quiñones reduced the deficit for Mexico. England’s task became more difficult after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off early in the second half, but Harry Kane converted a penalty to make it 3-1. Raúl Jiménez scored from the spot for Mexico to set up a tense finish, yet England held on to secure a 3-2 victory and advance to the last eight. In another Round of 16 clash, Norway produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament by defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1. The victory sent Norway into the quarter-finals, where they will face England. The two winners will meet in the quarter-finals as both sides continue their quest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.