World Cup 2026: Mexico May Be Your Last Game, Kane Won’t Save You — Thierry Henry Warns England

Former France international Thierry Henry has warned England that their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico could mark the end of their campaign if they repeat the slow start that nearly cost them against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Henry issued the warning after England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in their Round of 32 encounter on Wednesday.

The Three Lions were stunned in the seventh minute when Brian Cipenga fired DR Congo into an early lead, leaving Thomas Tuchel’s side chasing the game for much of the contest.

England eventually fought back through captain Harry Kane, who scored twice to complete a dramatic comeback and send his side into the last 16.

The victory earned England a difficult meeting with co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, where the hosts have won all four of their World Cup matches without conceding a goal.

Mexico defeated South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic and Ecuador during their unbeaten run to the knockout stage and will enjoy home support as well as the altitude advantage of playing more than 7,000 feet above sea level.

Speaking on Fox Sports, Henry questioned whether England would be capable of recovering again if they concede first against such a disciplined Mexican side.

“You don’t want to go there too soon, but you have to address the situation,” Henry said.

“If they start the same way they started today at the Azteca, dealing with the altitude and different conditions, I don’t know if they are going to come back against a team that still hasn’t conceded a goal.”

The Arsenal legend acknowledged Kane’s ability to change matches but insisted England cannot continue relying on the Bayern Munich striker to rescue them from poor performances.

“We all know Harry Kane can unlock any defence at any moment, but you can’t keep starting games like that,” Henry added.

He also suggested that England benefited from the cooling break during the DR Congo encounter, arguing that such circumstances may not work in their favour against Mexico.

England will now hope to overcome the tournament hosts and book a place in the World Cup quarter-finals, while Mexico will look to extend their impressive defensive record and continue their memorable run on home soil.