Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
England Norway quarter final is officially set after England edged Mexico 3 to 2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash at the Azteca Stadium. England survived more than an hour with ten men to secure a place in the last eight, where they will face Norway after Erling Haaland inspired a shock victory over Brazil. Away from the pitch, controversy continues to grow after FIFA overturned Folarin Balogun's suspension following lobbying from United States President Donald Trump, prompting Belgium to launch an appeal.
England produced one of their most resilient performances of the tournament to overcome Mexico despite the dismissal of defender Jarell Quansah. Thomas Tuchel's side held firm under relentless pressure before sealing a memorable victory that keeps their World Cup dream alive.
England books quarter final meeting with Norway
The victory sets up an intriguing quarter final against Norway, who stunned five time champions Brazil with a 2 to 1 victory.
Haaland scored twice to send Norway into the final eight, with the Manchester City striker later describing it as one of the greatest days in Norwegian football history. Norway coach Stale Solbakken called the result the biggest achievement in the nation's football history.
England will head into the contest full of confidence after surviving an intense examination in Mexico City.
Thomas Tuchel praised his players after the match, describing the performance as heroic. England played much of the game with ten men after Quansah's red card but defended with discipline before securing progression.
Jude Bellingham starred once again, while Harry Kane added another goal to move within one strike of the tournament's leading scorers.
Quarter final picture takes shape
The knockout bracket is beginning to take shape following the completion of two Round of 16 fixtures.
France will face Morocco in one quarter final, while England meet Norway in another.
The remaining quarter final places will be decided after Portugal play Spain, USA face Belgium, Argentina meet Egypt, and Switzerland take on Colombia.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed this tournament will be his final FIFA World Cup, adding extra significance to Portugal's clash with Spain.
Balogun controversy overshadows tournament
Off field events have become one of the biggest talking points of the competition after FIFA overturned Folarin Balogun's one match suspension.
The United States striker had originally been banned following a red card but was cleared to face Belgium after FIFA suspended the punishment.
Multiple reports indicate the decision followed lobbying efforts by United States President Donald Trump, who reportedly contacted FIFA officials several times regarding the case.
The decision has generated widespread criticism and debate across world football.
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia admitted he initially believed the reports were an April Fools joke before learning they were genuine.
Belgium launches FIFA appeal
The Royal Belgian Football Association has formally appealed FIFA's decision.
According to reports, FIFA has granted Belgium the right to challenge the suspension reversal, with both Belgium and US Soccer instructed to submit arguments before the scheduled Round of 16 match.
A FIFA Appeals Committee member has reportedly been appointed to review the matter, although there is no guarantee a final ruling will be delivered before kickoff.
The unusual circumstances have placed FIFA's disciplinary processes under intense scrutiny during one of the biggest tournaments in world football.
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Other major developments
South Korea's football leadership continues to experience significant upheaval following the team's group stage exit.
After head coach Hong Myung bu stepped down, Korean Football Association president Chung Mong gyu also resigned after thirteen years in the position, accepting responsibility for the national team's disappointing campaign.
Meanwhile, England received another setback after veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson reportedly suffered a serious wrist injury during post match celebrations. Although Henderson has played only a limited role during the tournament, the injury could end his World Cup campaign.
The race for the Golden Boot has also tightened.
Haaland's brace against Brazil moved him level with Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi on seven goals, while Harry Kane sits one goal behind after converting his penalty against Mexico.