Bellingham's blitz gives England edge in thrilling first half against Mexico

England took a 2-1 lead into half-time after a thrilling first half against Mexico in their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice in the space of two minutes before Julian Quinones pulled one back for the hosts.

The match kicked off an hour later than scheduled after severe weather delayed the start. Heavy rain and lightning over Mexico City forced FIFA to postpone kick-off at the Azteca Stadium in accordance with its safety protocols.

Bellingham opened the scoring in the 36th minute following a superb counter-attack. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford started the move before Declan Rice carried the ball forward and found Bukayo Saka on the right. Saka's inviting cross evaded Harry Kane but found Bellingham, who powered a diving header into the net to silence the home crowd.

Just two minutes later, England doubled their advantage. Elliott Anderson won possession immediately after the restart, and Kane slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Bellingham, who fired a powerful right-footed shot past the goalkeeper to complete his quickfire brace.

Mexico responded before the interval to keep the tie alive. In the 42nd minute, Julian Quinones found the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1, ensuring a tense second half awaits.

Mexico had couple of menacing opportunity just before the whistle of the first half.

After an explosive opening 45 minutes featuring three goals, England remain in front, but Mexico's late strike has left the Round of 16 contest finely poised heading into the second half.