Bukayo Saka continues to rewrite the record books at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his latest assist helped fire England into the quarter-finals and placed him alongside some of the country’s greatest creators.
The Arsenal winger played a crucial role in England’s unforgettable 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico, delivering a pinpoint cross for Jude Bellingham’s opening goal in the 36th minute.
Saka floated an inviting delivery into the penalty area, where Bellingham powered home a simple header to set England on their way to one of the greatest victories in the nation’s World Cup history.
The assist carried historic significance.
According to Opta, Saka has now registered three assists at the 2026 World Cup, the joint-highest total ever recorded by an Arsenal player at a single tournament since records began in 1966.
He joins former Gunners star Dennis Bergkamp, who achieved the feat during the 1998 World Cup, while also matching teammate Martin Ødegaard, who has also recorded three assists during this year’s competition.
Saka has also equalled England’s all-time World Cup assist record.
Only David Beckham at the 2002 World Cup and Harry Kane in 2022 had previously managed three assists in a single edition of the tournament.
The 24-year-old now stands just one assist away from becoming the outright record holder for both England and Arsenal.
Interestingly, the opportunity to break one of those records will come against an Arsenal teammate.
England’s quarter-final opponents are Norway, meaning Saka and Ødegaard will go head-to-head with both players currently tied on three assists at the tournament.
The last-eight clash is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, with kick-off set for 22:00 BST.
Beyond the assist statistics, Saka has been among the tournament’s most productive attacking players.
Across 485 minutes of action, he has contributed six direct goal involvements while also winning a penalty that led to another England goal. Excluding the penalty earned, Saka is averaging a goal contribution every 81 minutes remarkable consistency for a player who has become one of Thomas Tuchel’s most influential attacking weapons.
As England continue their pursuit of World Cup glory, Saka’s creativity could prove just as decisive as Harry Kane’s finishing or Jude Bellingham’s midfield brilliance.
And with history now within touching distance, the Arsenal star has another major incentive to shine when England face Norway in the quarter-finals.
