| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| Studs-up | Making a tackle while showing the metal studs on the bottom of a soccer cleat. |
| Estadio Azteca | A famous soccer stadium located in Mexico City. |
| Competitive | A game played in a tournament, or as part of a competition. |
In a thrilling World Cup match, England defeated Mexico 3-2 to move on to the quarterfinals. The game was the last World Cup match in Mexico this year. England played with only ten players for much of the second half after a player was sent off for a studs-up tackle.
By the end of the game, Mexico had controlled the ball 66% of the time, but couldn’t score enough goals to win. England’s Jude Bellingham scored two quick goals late in the first half, surprising Mexico’s team and fans. Despite being behind, Mexico fought back. Julián Quiñones scored a goal that brought the fans to life.
Even though Mexico tried hard to score again, England’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made important saves. Both teams scored penalty kicks in the second half, but Mexico couldn’t catch up. This loss was only the third time Mexico lost a competitive game at Estadio Azteca.
Estadio Azteca is famous for hosting many important matches in soccer history. Mexico hopes to return stronger in future World Cups, aiming to do better in 2030.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Penalty | Penalti |
| Goal | Gol |
| Stadium | Estadio |
Time to discuss
- Why do you think soccer is so popular around the world?
- What qualities do you think make a good soccer player?
- How do you think a team can recover after losing an important match?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Describe how Mexico performed in their last World Cup match.
- What was an important moment during the game that affected the outcome?
