England manager Thomas Tuchel has hit out at referees in the 2026 World Cup after his side beat Mexico 3-2 to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Following a delayed start to the match due to thunderstorms, England came out victorious against Mexico in the round-of-16 fixture with a brace from Jude Bellingham and a penalty from Harry Kane.
Defender Jarrel Quansah saw red in the second half for a dangerous tackle, and Mexico managed to pull the game back to 3-2 with a penalty from Raul Jimenez – but the hosts were unable to find an equaliser before the final whistle.
Concern arose for Jordan Henderson who had to be carried off in a stretcher during the full-time celebrations after injuring himself by falling over the advertising boards.
After the match, Tuchel said that he believed the officials were “not good enough” during the game following a controversial awarding of a penalty to Mexico for their second goal.
Frustrated by the officials
Speaking to BBC Sport, Tuchel said: “It’s just not good enough.
“Referees are just not good enough. Fourth officials are just not good enough.
“It’s the bottom line. Is this a clear and obvious mistake for the [Mexico] penalty? For sure not, but VAR gets involved.
“They overturn a situation where he doesn’t even give a foul. Not good enough.”
READ MORE: Jermaine Jenas backs Thomas Tuchel to stay as England boss even if Mexico end World Cup dream
Proud of the performance
Tuchel went on to share his pride in the display of what became a 10-man England team.
He said: “These are the moments in tournaments where you find a way to win.
“This doesn’t feel like a round-of-16 match, it feels like a final!
“The moment where the referee puts the whistle to his mouth, with 10 men, altitude against a home country… this is a moment of joy and a heroic performance and result.”
Azteca an iconic stadium
The England boss gave his thoughts on playing in the famous Azteca stadium.
He said: “I didn’t find it hostile, more cheering and emotional.
“The national anthem was unbelievable.
“We were aware of that but we refused to give in. This team did it on pure will. No words.
“They did it in an iconic match, in an iconic stadium.
“We overcame so much adversity. Full credit. I’m very proud. A crazy match in a crazy atmosphere, and we were up against all odds.
“Even in the end it was 11 minutes [stoppage time] and he [the referee] gives another two corners to make it 12 minutes. Everything went against us.”
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