Round of 32 Drama: Mexico Edges Ecuador, England Survives Norway, Belgium Stuns Czech Republic

The Round of 32 delivered its share of heartbreak on Wednesday. Mexico's Santiago Giménez opened the scoring against Ecuador in the 23rd minute, but the South American underdogs clawed back through Enner Valencia's 58th-minute leveller. The match hung in the balance until Raúl Jiménez's 81st-minute strike—a clinical finish that sent Mexico through 2–1 and left Ecuador's tournament dreams in tatters.

England's clash with Norway proved equally tense. Harry Kane's early 23rd-minute goal gave the Three Lions control, but Erling Haaland's 57th-minute response brought Norway level and set up a grandstand finish. Jude Bellingham's composed 78th-minute goal proved the difference, sealing a 2–1 victory and a quarterfinal spot for Gareth Southgate's side. Haaland's pace and power had England on edge; their relief at the final whistle was palpable.

Belgium's encounter with Czech Republic followed a similar script. Kevin De Bruyne's 23rd-minute opener gave the Red Devils an early grip, but Patrik Schick's 58th-minute equaliser brought the Czechs within touching distance. The deadlock broke in Belgium's favour when Romelu Lukaku slotted home in the 81st minute, securing a 2–1 win and passage to the last eight. Three matches, three one-goal margins, and three nations heading home. The knockout stage shows no mercy.