Mexico celebrates after defeating Ecuador in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup at Azteca Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico on 30/6. Photo: AP

After progressing through the group stage and defeating Democratic Republic of Congo in the round of 32, England faces its toughest challenge yet: Mexico at Azteca Stadium. This venue has never witnessed the home team suffer a defeat in any World Cup. While the "Three Lions" may have a slightly superior squad, history, playing conditions, and current form all indicate that this away match in Mexico City will be one of their most difficult tests of the tournament.

The first reason for this challenge lies in Mexico's almost perfect home record. The national team has played 89 matches at Azteca, losing only two times. Their most recent defeat occurred in 2013 against Honduras. In the World Cup specifically, Mexico boasts an even more impressive statistic, remaining unbeaten in 10 matches at Azteca with eight wins and two draws. From the 1970 and 1986 World Cups to this year's tournament, every opponent that has set foot in Azteca has failed to defeat the host. South Africa, Czech Republic, and Ecuador all lost and failed to score a single goal when facing Mexico in the 2026 World Cup.

Mexico 2-0 Ecuador: key moments

Perhaps the biggest challenge for England lies in the atmosphere, in a physical sense. Azteca is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,245 m above sea level, making it the highest among all stadiums hosting the 2026 World Cup. The thin air significantly reduces oxygen levels, forcing players to expend more energy for the same intensity of movement. Coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that this disadvantage cannot be overcome in just a few days. England has only four days to prepare for the match, which is insufficient time for the body to adapt to the altitude. According to the German coach, physiological adaptation requires more time, so the players will have to accept playing under unfavorable conditions.

England arrived in Mexico City about 48 hours before the match. In contrast, Mexico has been training at its base camp outside the capital since early May. Even players competing in Europe have had enough time to adapt to this unique environment.

Harry Kane (left) celebrates the equalizer with Jude Bellingham in England's 2-1 comeback victory over Democratic Republic of Congo in the World Cup round of 32 match at Atlanta on 1/7. Photo: AP

This difference could become evident in the second half. Studies on high-altitude sports show that players tire more easily, recover slower, and find it difficult to maintain pressing intensity or continuous transitions. This was evident in Mexico's 3-0 victory over Czech Republic, where the European players were almost completely exhausted after halftime. Even if they overcome the physical barrier, England will still face a formidable atmosphere from the Azteca stands. This legendary stadium has a capacity of about 80,000 spectators. Whenever Mexico plays, it transforms into a "cauldron" with cheers that last from before kickoff until after the final whistle. Every time an opponent touches the ball, the crowd simultaneously whistles and boos.

Coach Javier Aguirre refers to the fans as Mexico's "twelfth player". This is not just an encouraging statement. In the match against Ecuador, many stars who have competed for years in Europe, such as Moises Caicedo, Willian Pacho, and Piero Hincapie, struggled under the immense pressure from the stands. Hincapie even lost his composure and received a red card late in the match. England's players are accustomed to the pressure of the Premier League and Champions League. However, the suffocating atmosphere of Azteca, combined with the altitude and tens of thousands of constantly pressuring fans, presents a different experience. Tuchel also admitted that his team will face "many obstacles", not just those related to skill.

England 2-1 Democratic Republic of Congo: key moments

Home advantage would mean little if Mexico were not playing well. However, the opposite is true. After three matches at Azteca in the 2026 World Cup, the hosts have successively defeated South Africa 2-0, Czech Republic 3-0, and Ecuador 2-0. These three opponents managed a total of only four shots on target. Mexico's defense has yet to concede a goal in the tournament. With each match, Aguirre's squad plays with greater cohesion and confidence. From defensive organization and transitions to finishing efficiency, Mexico has shown improvement. Based solely on their performance since the start of the World Cup, Mexico is considered on par with two championship contenders: France and Argentina. That is why many experts believe Azteca is not only challenging due to its location, but also because Mexico is in its best form precisely as it enters the knockout stage.

England's greatest strength may lie in its own destiny. Tuchel's squad comprises many stars who have played in top-level European matches. In terms of squad value and individual quality, England is still rated higher than Mexico.

Raul Jimenez (center) scores Mexico's second goal against the challenge of Pedro Vite (second from left) of Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match in Mexico City. Photo: AP

Additionally, the "Three Lions" carry a historical debt. The last time England played at Azteca was in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina. They lost 1-2 in a match that went down in history with the infamous "Hand of God" and the solo run considered the "Goal of the Century", both by Diego Maradona. Almost 40 years later, Tuchel believes it is time for "karma" to smile upon the England national team. He trusts the team will be rewarded and can "make peace with this stadium" with a victory. However, motivation is only one part of the game. Unlike the 1986 match against Argentina, this time England faces host Mexico with an enthusiastic atmosphere from the stands. If they want to continue their journey to conquer their first World Cup trophy in 60 years, England will have to play an excellent match. Because at Azteca, simply having a strong squad is not enough for an opponent.

Hoang An (according to SI)