Even if England lose in the 2026 World Cup – their match against Mexico will stand-out through the ages – and I do not say that lightly. The way Bellingham and Kane split the Mexican defence was extraordinary and world class! Bellingham scored twice in around 2 minutes – whilst Kane scored a penalty just after England had been reduced to 10-men. I have a political soft-spot for Mexico and I wish the people well. Sport is often blind to affection and indifferent to justice. The Mexican people have stood by the political-left for decades – and that has been important for humanity – far more than kicking a ball around a pitch. If you remember how the ordinary working-class people started supporting North Korea in 1966 during the World Cup in England – Mexico has been important for humanity and for sport (Mexico has hosted the World Cup three-times – but never won the trophy – much to my surprise. Although I do not want to see England lose – if we do lose – I would prefer it to a team like Mexico.
We should never lose to the likes of the USA – or Norway – for that matter. I still cannot comprehend how France became a footballing nation – yes – I am that old. I think my recently deceased father is sat somewhere laughing with glee at this wonderful England performance. I keep odd hours and was up by 2am to see the delayed kick-off. It was a match of the ages – a match to end all matches! Until now, one of the best technical matches I have ever seen is the 1970 game between England (the defending world champions) and Brazil (the next world champions) – which England lost 0-1! This mornings match might well rival that match simply because England won! We might as well have won the World Cup – so brilliant was the performance. The Referee was against us – and we were fighting a hostile crowd – all things that professional players are expected to deal with and overcome!
I read the Mexican press coverage and they were nothing but respectful – although sad about losing – about the England win! I saw aerial pictures of around 1.35 Mexican fans making their way back to their places of work and living – many to remote towns and villages – with no apparent trouble. We must be grateful to the Mexican people – and I say that being fully aware of human nature – and all the troubles that can occur between rival camps. So, to the Mexican people – I thank you from the bottom of my heart for hosting the World Cup and for playing England in the way that you did, with passion and pride. I will never forget this game – which aired at an odd time in the UK – it was scheduled for 1am – particularly as everyone thought it would be the end of our World Cup run! Still, here we all are. Mexico will re-build as the pain fades away. Supporters of England know this only too well. As always – I thank England’s Black players (as well as the White and Asian players) – you know who you are and what you have achieved! Oneday, perhaps our society will evolve beyond the need for colour recognition. Let’s hope so. Thank you humanity!
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 