England stunned Mexico 2‑1 at the Azteca Stadium on June 23, 2026, and former striker Alan Shearer now believes the Three Lions can go all the way. The former Premier League golden‑boot says the win has turned his skepticism into optimism for a World Cup title push.

How did Shearer’s view change?

Shearer confessed he arrived in Mexico City doubting England could lift the trophy. “Before I saw the game I didn’t truly believe we could win the World Cup,” he told the BBC. The 55‑year‑old said the gritty display, especially after playing with ten men, forced him to rewrite his expectations. He highlighted Harry Kane’s clinical finish and Jude Bellingham’s midfield dynamism as proof that the squad possesses the firepower needed at the highest level.

Why does the Mexico win matter?

The victory did more than add three points; it showcased depth across the pitch. Every starter contributed, and Thomas Tuchel’s tactical tweaks paid off, according to Shearer. He praised the team’s adaptability, noting England have not settled on a single style like Spain’s possession game. The win also came despite altitude challenges and a hostile crowd, factors that often trip up visiting sides. Shearer believes this resilience will be vital when England faces tougher opponents later in the tournament.

What does the road ahead look like for England?

England’s next test arrives in Miami against Norway, a match that will test the squad’s ability to maintain momentum. The Three Lions sit on a recent form of 2W‑0D‑2L, currently on a two‑game winning run, and their last result was a 4‑2 victory over Croatia on June 17, 2026. Jordan Henderson remains sidelined, leaving a gap in midfield leadership. After the Norway game, England will host Spain on September 26, 2026, a fixture that could decide who advances to the knockout stages.

What does Shearer expect from the squad?

Shearer doesn’t claim England have a fixed identity, but he trusts the collective spirit. He recalled the post‑match dressing‑room scene, where John Stones pretended to be injured before breaking into a dance, as evidence of the camaraderie fueling the side. The former striker also praised Tuchel’s reaction to the prank, saying it showed a manager who is genuinely part of the team’s unity. If England can keep this together, Shearer argues they have a realistic chance of reaching at least the semi‑finals, something the nation has not achieved since 1990.

The former England hero ends on a hopeful note: “I still don’t know if we will win it, but everything about the way we played against Mexico showed why we can.” With the squad riding high after a dramatic win, the world will be watching to see if Shearer’s newfound belief turns into a historic triumph.