Upon their arrival at a Mexico City hotel for the World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico, England encountered a warm but unfriendly welcome.
The English team had attempted to keep their location under wraps after Mexican fans had previously disrupted Ecuador’s players with loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles before their own last-32 match, which Ecuador lost 2-0 on Wednesday.
However, as England’s bus pulled up to the hotel, they were met by hundreds of supporters, some booing while others chanted “The schedule change hits like a kick in the stomach,”. Notably, at least one fan was spotted holding an England shirt amidst the crowd.
In light of the earlier disturbances, security measures have been heightened around the hotel. This comes after Ecuador’s football federation lodged complaints following their own experiences. Additionally, security has been intensified throughout the city due to the tragic deaths of four individuals during post-match celebrations after Mexico’s victory over Ecuador.
Match Details and Schedule
England, led by Thomas Tuchel, is set to face the co-hosts at the iconic Azteca Stadium, with the match kicking off at 6 PM local time (1 AM Monday in the UK). FIFA had briefly contemplated advancing the match time due to predicted storms; however, after five and a half hours of deliberation on Friday, they opted to maintain the original schedule.
Mexico expressed discontent regarding any rescheduling less than 48 hours before the match, which left the English Football Association bewildered by the possibility of changes and less than impressed with the back-and-forth negotiations. Javier Aguirre, the head coach of Mexico, remarked, “We have to change the entire plan. I don’t like it at all.”
Challenges Ahead for England
The unfriendly reception is just one of the many hurdles England will face in Mexico City. The Azteca Stadium is situated over 2,000 meters above sea level, necessitating player adjustments to the thinner air.
Historically, Mexico has been formidable at the Azteca, suffering only two defeats in 89 matches. They have claimed victory in 70 and drawn 17, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 World Cup games at this venue.
