Harry Kane hails England's 'fighting spirit' after Mexico World Cup thriller

The Three Lions faced a huge challenge at the Estadio Azteca after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a high challenge, leaving England to play with 10 men for much of the match.

Despite the setback, Thomas Tuchel's side showed resilience to hold off the hosts and book a last-eight meeting with Norway.

An emotional Kane admitted the match demanded everything from the squad.

"It was a crazy game. We had to fight and we had to find something," the England captain said after the final whistle.

"I've just been singing, I can't really talk. The occasion, the team, everything against us, we found a way."

England made a flying start thanks to Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in just 98 seconds during the first half to put his side in control. However, the momentum shifted when Bellingham conceded a penalty after the referee reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor, allowing Mexico back into the contest.

Kane restored England's advantage from the penalty spot on the hour mark with a composed finish that proved to be the decisive goal in a tense encounter.

The Bayern Munich striker also questioned some of the officiating during the match but was relieved it did not affect the outcome.

"I thought I got to the ball first, it was one of those days," Kane said. "The ref gave a lot against us. In the end it didn't matter so I'm happy."

England's reward is a quarter-final clash against Norway on Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. 

READ MORE: Ten-man England defeat Mexico in World Cup classic as Tuchel salutes 'heroic' victory