The recent clash between Mexico and England in the Round of 16 at the World Cup has sparked discussions about its place in football history. Though it’s too soon to definitively say if this match in Mexico City ranks among the all-time greats, it certainly stood out in a tournament filled with unforgettable encounters.

So, does this game deserve the top spot as the most exciting of the current World Cup? Here’s a closer look at the three standout matches thus far:

3. Portugal vs. Croatia (Round of 32)

This match delivered drama in abundance. Despite a quiet first half, the second half became one of the most thrilling of this World Cup. Both teams exchanged opportunities and shifted control back and forth. After Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal was disallowed for a marginal offside, he quickly responded by converting a penalty to equalize.

Portugal took the lead late in the game, and Croatia seemed to equalize with the final kick. However, the goal was annulled after a video assistant review, escalating the tension further.

2. Argentina vs. Cape Verde (Round of 32)

This match embodied the classic David vs. Goliath theme with reigning champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, against a debutant nation, Cape Verde, with a population of 600,000. The thought of Cape Verde defeating Argentina generated a mix of humor and intrigue. Yet, the match turned intensely competitive, capturing fans’ imaginations.

Cape Verde fought back repeatedly, refusing to bow out quietly. Despite eventually succumbing to Argentina, Cape Verde’s achievement of not losing in regulation time against powerhouses like Uruguay, Spain, and Argentina alone marked a historic World Cup run.

1. England vs. Mexico (Round of 16)

On Sunday, England faced a formidable opponent in Mexico, provoking immense national pride. While the match may not have featured the same technical brilliance as the others, it showcased two teams exerting maximum effort to survive the tournament’s rigors.

England battled with ten players for the last third of the game, enduring the pressure from the passionate audience. Mexico’s relentless attacks did not break them, and England managed to hold onto their lead until the final whistle amid a cacophony of noise and emotion in the stadium.