Co-host Mexico played all their group stage matches at Azteca Stadium, situated approximately 2,240 meters above sea level. This allowed them to acclimatize to the thin air and lower oxygen levels, giving them a physical advantage over teams accustomed to playing at lower elevations.

Tuchel highlighted this concern immediately after England's victory over DR Congo in the round of 16. He stated that England's biggest drawback is the inability to adapt to such harsh conditions in a very short period. "We only have three days between two matches, so physically, adaptation is impossible," the former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain coach remarked. "We knew this beforehand. It's a disadvantage the team must accept and find a way to overcome. I believe the players' spirit shows they are ready."

Coach Tuchel celebrates after England's 2-1 comeback win against DR Congo in the World Cup 2026 round of 16 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA on 1/7. Photo: Reuters

During the early stages of this year's tournament, the England squad was based in Kansas City, USA. Tuchel's team is scheduled to fly to Mexico City on the afternoon of 3/7, a journey of about 2,700 km. Despite the significant challenges ahead, the German tactician expressed enthusiasm. "We just finished the match and are enjoying the victory, but what's coming up is probably one of the most exciting matchups you could hope for," he said regarding the Mexico encounter.

"Facing Mexico at Azteca Stadium is a big challenge. Many difficulties await, but we are ready," Tuchel added. "Perhaps the team also needs such challenges. After what we've shown, we have enough reason to believe the team will find a way to overcome difficulties." Azteca is the first stadium in history to host matches in three World Cups. In the previous two tournaments, in 1970 and 1986, it even hosted both the opening and final matches, witnessing legends Pele and Diego Maradona lift the World Cup trophy.

Kane equalized 1-1.

Beyond the natural conditions, the England team may face other obstacles in Mexico. Ecuador previously lodged a complaint with FIFA after fireworks were set off outside their hotel in Mexico City the night before their 0-2 loss to the hosts in the round of 16. "I'm not sure if the trip will be smooth, if we'll get a full night's sleep, or if there will be noise outside the hotel," the 52-year-old coach commented. "Let things happen. This is a very exciting match. There will be many challenges, but my team will be ready to face them all."

Kane sealed the 2-1 victory.

On 1/7 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, England struggled, falling behind DR Congo in the first half. For most of the second half, they were stifled by a dense defense and the excellent performance of goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. It wasn't until the final 15 minutes that striker Harry Kane delivered, scoring a brace in 11 minutes to secure a 2-1 comeback victory for the "Three Lions".

England's captain and striker now has 5 goals in four matches, matching Erling Haaland (Norway) and trailing only Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe (6 goals) in the Golden Boot race. "When they smell an opportunity, they all know how to finish the game," Tuchel said about the competition among the world's top strikers at this year's World Cup.

When reminded that this was England's first comeback win at a World Cup since the 1966 final, Tuchel saw it as a positive sign. He stated: "It shows the players' determination, belief, and ability to maintain focus. It also aligns with my feeling that they are not under psychological pressure. The entire team plays with the right attitude and always trusts their spirit."

The winner of the Mexico versus England match will advance to face Brazil or Norway in the quarterfinals.

By Hong Duy (according to ESPN, The Guardian)