England face Mexico in a crucial World Cup last-16 clash tonight, with Thomas Tuchel making key selection decisions after a dramatic round-of-32 victory over DR Congo.
Tuchel reshuffles lineup after DR Congo scare
The Three Lions had to come from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday, setting up a showdown with co-hosts Mexico at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. Tuchel has made changes following that performance, with Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon starting on the wings after impressing off the bench.
Jarell Quansah, who missed the final Group L fixture against Panama with an ankle injury, returns to the starting lineup at right-back. Djed Spence and Reece James, the latter nursing a hamstring injury, are among the substitutes.
Key injury updates and defensive reshuffle
James missed the Panama game with a hamstring problem, while Quansah limped off in that match with an ankle issue. Quansah trained with the squad in Mexico City on Saturday and is fit to start. Declan Rice, who filled in at right-back late against DR Congo, returns to midfield alongside Elliot Anderson.
Jordan Pickford remains in goal but will aim to improve after being beaten too easily at his near post for Brian Cipenga's early goal for DR Congo.
Attacking changes: Saka and Gordon start
Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford were disappointing in starting wide roles against DR Congo, leading to Saka and Gordon being brought on. Gordon assisted both of Harry Kane's late goals, and both now start against Mexico. Jude Bellingham operates at No.10, with captain Kane leading the line as usual after his latest heroics saw him surpass Pele on the all-time World Cup finals goalscorers list.
Confirmed England XI and match details
England XI: Pickford; Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Rice, Anderson, Bellingham; Saka, Kane, Gordon. Subs: Henderson, Trafford, Stones, Chalobah, Burn, James, Spence, Henderson, Mainoo, Rogers, Eze, Rashford, Watkins, Madueke, Toney.
The match kicks off at 1am BST on Monday July 6, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and will be broadcast on BBC One.
