World Cup 2026: How England beat Mexico in five mini-games

England’s step-by-step approach to the game was confirmed by assistant coach Anthony Barry at half-time.

“We have prepared the players from the beginning until the water breaks, it will be a very difficult game,” he said.

“We have to suffer. Mexico always starts fast. We knew 0-0 would be a good result (at the break).”

England had earlier muted some of Mexico’s moves.

The visitors were more measured defensively than in previous games.

Tuchel, who has put a lot of pressure on his side before the game, has called for them to work harder to do so.

“We are fully committed to our press,” he said. But it is not economical. We have to be smart and choose the right moments.

England, although not flawless, have picked their timing and looked better than DRC in their last 32 games.

As Mexico build from deep, England have reduced their options to Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and an extra player – one more than they used against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Their improved pressing kept Mexico at bay, but a clever deep move left the midfielder or winger unmarked for the ball and Javier Aguirre’s men were able to get upfield.

England midfielder Elliott Anderson was close to the central defenders in these moments – instead of pressing high, he held his position deep to prevent an easy clearance for Mexico. This later became a key detail in the game.