England got their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign off to a flying start, beat Mexico 3-2 in a well-deserved performance at Estadio Banorte, Mexico City. The three-point haul launches them to the top of their group in a competition that has already proven unpredictable and compelling in equal measure. The 2026 edition — the first to feature 48 teams — is co-hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 104 matches scheduled from 11 June to the final on 19 July. England could not have asked for a better start to their journey.
This 5-goal contest featured some fine finishing, though scorer details are yet to be confirmed by official sources.
Mexico edged the territorial battle, finishing with 66.9% possession against their opponent's 33.1%. The shot count read 20 to 6 — Mexico showed greater menace in the final third but the numbers only tell part of the story.
England top their group with a maximum haul of three points from the opening fixture. For Mexico, the recovery work begins immediately — there is plenty of football still to play in a format that gives every team a genuine chance to qualify. The 80,824 crowd inside Estadio Banorte, Mexico City played their part throughout.
With 48 teams making this the largest World Cup in history, the group stage alone delivers an extraordinary volume of high-stakes international football. The United States, Canada and Mexico have already produced unforgettable atmospheres — and there is plenty more to come.
