Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
England vs Mexico extra time rules became a major talking point as their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash at Estadio Azteca delivered the kind of drama that felt too big for 90 minutes.
The match in Mexico City had momentum swings, noise, pressure and late tension, leaving fans preparing for the possibility of extra time or penalties.
The knockout drama followed another England storyline, with Djed Spence wearing a jaw brace while playing through his World Cup injury.
How Extra Time Works
There is no golden goal rule at the World Cup, meaning a match does not end immediately if a team scores in extra time.
If England and Mexico are level after normal time, they must play two 15-minute halves, with teams switching ends at halftime of extra time.
Even if one side scores early, the full 30 minutes still has to be completed.
Stoppage time can also be added at the end of each extra-time half for injuries, substitutions or other delays.
Teams receive one additional substitute during extra time, giving managers another chance to change legs, shape or penalty options.
What Happens If It Goes To Penalties
If the score remains tied after 30 minutes of extra time, the match goes to a penalty shootout.
Each side chooses five penalty takers from players who were on the pitch at the end of extra time.
The teams take turns from the spot, and if one team leads after five kicks each, that team advances in the World Cup.
If the shootout is still level after five penalties each, it moves into sudden death, with one kick per team until a winner is decided.
Official tournament rules and match updates are available through FIFA.
