Mexico are targeting a historic defensive milestone as they prepare to face England in the World Cup last 16 at the Estadio Azteca. The co-hosts have kept four consecutive clean sheets so far, not conceding in 360 minutes of play, and are now eyeing the record set by England in 1966.
Mexico's Defensive Streak
Goalkeepers Raul 'Tala' Rangel and Guillermo Ochoa have combined for four shutouts against South Africa, South Korea, Czechia, and Ecuador. Rangel has played 348 minutes, while the 40-year-old Ochoa, who will retire after the tournament, featured for 12 minutes in the 3-0 win over Czechia. Mexico's current run of 360 minutes without conceding is the second-longest by any nation at a World Cup, trailing only England's 442-minute streak in 1966, when Gordon Banks was eventually beaten by Portugal's Eusebio.
If Mexico can keep England scoreless for at least 82 more minutes, they will surpass the Three Lions' record. The all-time World Cup mark for most minutes without conceding belongs to Italy's Walter Zenga, who went 517 minutes in 1990. Mexico must first silence Harry Kane and England's attack to continue their pursuit.
Raul Jimenez: Pickford's Nemesis
Mexico striker Raul Jimenez has a remarkable record against England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, having scored six times past him—more than any other goalkeeper. The 35-year-old netted five goals for Wolves and one for Fulham against Pickford's Everton in May 2025. Jimenez's career nearly ended in November 2020 after a fractured skull from a collision, but he underwent life-saving surgery and returned to light training within two weeks.
Jimenez has already scored twice at this World Cup and is Mexico's second all-time leading scorer with 47 goals, trailing only Javier Hernandez (52). He is considered Mexico's answer to Harry Kane and could further cement his legacy by inspiring a victory over England.
Historical Context
Mexico's defensive record contrasts with their past. In the 1966 World Cup, Mexico's own goalkeeper Antonio Carbajal set an unwanted record for most goals conceded across multiple World Cups (25). Now, the team aims to write a different story. England head coach Thomas Tuchel has acknowledged the challenge, stating that Mexico's form makes them a formidable opponent.
The match promises to be a tightly contested clash, with Mexico's defense and Jimenez's scoring prowess key factors. A win would not only break England's 1966 record but also propel Mexico into the quarterfinals.
