England have advanced to the last eight of the 2026 World Cup following a hard-fought victory against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. Fans have been full of praise for the entire team, but one unsung hero has received another level of acclaim.

Jude Bellingham netted a first-half double before Harry Kane smashed home a penalty to secure the thrilling 3-2 victory to knock out the home nation on their home turf. Both men have been the stars of the Three Lions’ campaign so far, but they needed their teammates to elevate to their level against Mexico.

That’s exactly what happened. Every man in white left the pitch with significant credit in the bank after digging deep to overcome the perceived disadvantage of the altitude in Mexico City. Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon typified the energy on display.

England Star Puts in Impressive World Cup Display

Paul Childs via Reuters

Gordon, who left Newcastle United to join the Spanish giants earlier this summer, wrestled back his starting place from Marcus Rashford after an impressive substitute cameo against DR Congo. Tuchel’s decision to restore the scouser on the left flank more than paid off.

The 25-year-old played the full match and never stopped running, which was even more vital after Jarell Quansah’s red card. While his passing accuracy (64%) and dribbling success rate (two out of six) weren’t the best, his hard-working nature didn’t allow the Mexican defenders to rest.

He played one key pass, had one shot on target and won the penalty, which eventually produced the winning goal. Gordon’s efforts off the ball were perhaps more impressive than anything he did with it. But it still counts the same.

Gordon Heralded For ‘World-Class’ Performance

Paul Childs via Reuters

England supporters were quick to praise Gordon’s efforts on social media. One even went as far as saying it was the ex-Newcastle attacker’s best-ever game: “Anthony Gordon is having the game of his life, wow.”

“Gordon has been incredible. From his biggest critic – you are the b******* mate,” another usually critical fan stated. An ecstatic supporter labelled the winger an ‘animal’, saying: “Gordon has been an animal in this game.”

Perhaps the biggest compliment he received on social media was that he was ‘world-class’ on the night. “Anthony Gordon, this is just unbelievable from you, man. Like, I cannot believe how good he’s been out there. Beyond world-class tonight.”

His work rate and never-say-die attitude was clearly appreciated, as another X user said: “Anthony Gordon has 17 lungs,” due to his constant running.

Statistics in this article are courtesy of SofaScore. Correct as of 06-07-26.

Fabrizio Romano says Tottenham are now just one step away from announcing a record transfer as they continue their summer of spending. Spurs have put together a club record-setting window that has seen them spend more than £200million in a bid to transform a bottom-dwelling side into one that is capable of fighting for the European spots.

Roberto De Zerbi is being backed to the hilt after keeping Tottenham in the Premier League last season, and there is excitement aplenty around Hotspur Way this summer.

Spurs snapped up some smart free signings early on, and they added to those with the captures of Jan Paul van Hecke and Mateus Fernandes. They have now added another.

Tottenham prepare to announce record deal

via Reuters

Spurs are now said to have completed a deal to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United. The deal is worth £100million including add-ons, while around £92million is expected to be the bulk payment.

Writing on X, Fabrizio Romano wrote: “All documents are signed between Tottenham and Newcastle for Sandro Tonali. Club statement, next step as Tonali will become #THFC record signing.”

Newcastle paid £55million to sign Tonali from AC Milan in 2023, meaning they make a hefty profit on the midfielder. As for Tonali himself, he swaps clubs without having had the chance to play European football next season with either club, but he has a friendship with De Zerbi due to being from the same area in Italy.

Tonali told Sky Italy recently: “Let’s say De Zerbi played a huge role in this decision. He made a huge difference. He acted as a fellow native of Brescia and a friend, but he also demonstrated that he had a lot of work behind him, and that he is committed to it.”

What Tottenham are getting in Tonali

Reuters

Speaking back in 2023, Howe described Tonali as ‘magnificent’ after a fine performance and goal. He said: “He was magnificent. The goal, sometimes these things are just meant to happen, and he’s arrived in the box and it’s a great finish.

“I’m delighted with his overall performance. He knitted into the midfield very well. He’s built a really good relationship with Bruno Guimaraes) and the players on the right-hand side. You can see how good he can be.”

Meanwhile, Jamie Carragher said recently: “Tonali is a midfielder I really rate. He’s got great pace and great power in midfield. He’s certainly a player I looked at thinking about Liverpool.”

Arsenal are looking to make some serious additions to their Premier League-winning squad this summer, and new forwards are being considered.

The Gunners have already agreed to sell Leandro Trossard to Besiktas this summer, while there is strong speculation that the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Ethan Nwaneri will also be allowed to leave, as Mikel Arteta looks to freshen the squad up.

But while midfield has emerged as the priority, with talks intensifying for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, another Brazil star has now emerged as a target at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal Eyeing Rayan Deal

According to a report by journalist Edu Burgos, Arsenal are among the clubs paying close attention to the situation of Rayan at Bournemouth.

The Brazil international, who has been described as ‘deadly’, enjoyed a stunning first half-season in England after joining the Cherries in January, registering five goals and two assists in just 12 starts in the Premier League.

His performances earned him a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad, and he has found himself in a starting role on the right-wing following Raphinha’s injury, including the Last 16 clash with Norway on Sunday night.

Bournemouth do not want to sell him under any circumstances this summer, but it is known that the 20-year-old has a €100m (£87m) release clause that is active from 2027, and they could be forced to consider any big offers this year.

Arsenal have held internal talks about a move for the winger, while Man Utd and PSG are also said to be showing an interest. A deal isn’t on the table at this stage, but it is looking inevitable that Rayan’s stay at the Cherries won’t be a long one.

Arsenal to Add Another Brazilian?

Arsenal are ready to make a big splash in the transfer market once again this summer as they look to retain their crown as English champions for the first time in their history.

A new injection of pace and fresh blood in the attack looks like a necessity, and a player like Rayan who is ready to explode at the highest level could be the perfect remedy, while also providing quality depth and competition for Bukayo Saka on the right.

It would be an expensive deal, but Arsenal have a great Brazilian group in their squad already, and this would almost certainly be a welcome addition.