‘Instant classic’: Sports world reacts to England-Mexico thriller

It might have been the match of the tournament.

Sunday’s Round of 16 game between England and Mexico was a start-to-finish thriller, complete with penalties, red cards and a push to equalize in the final minutes that had everyone in Azteca Stadium on the edge of their seats.

England was off to an early 2-1 lead going into the second half, when a successful penalty from Harry Kane gave The Three Lions a commanding 3-1 advantage.

The game was far from over, though, as a penalty awarded to Raul Jimenez brought Mexico within one.

Though England would ultimately hold on to take the win, this match has undoubtable etched itself into the 2026 FIFA World Cup lore.

Here are some of the best reactions from around the sports world.