England must conquer the altitude and the Azteca atmosphere as they take on
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Mexico have flown through to this stage, deservedly beating Ecuador 2-0 in the last 32 to win a World Cup knockout game for the first time since 1986, when they last hosted the tournament. That victory was their fourth out of four and they’re yet to concede a goal.
Javier Aguirre’s team have harnessed the backing of the vociferous home crowds, primarily at the Azteca, to surf into the last 16. If they win again, they will cross the border into the US for the first time.
England have won their last four matches against Mexico, all friendlies, in a period that spans 40 years. The only competitive fixture between these teams was at the World Cup in 1966, when the Three Lions triumphed 2-0 on their way to lifting the trophy.
The Azteca is a factor. Playing football at an altitude of 2,200 metres above sea level without time to acclimatise is physically tough and a proven competitive disadvantage.
England elected to prioritise recovery time at their base in Kansas over rushing their trip to Mexico City, but they would have struggled to get used to the altitude before kick-off in any case.
While Tuchel’s team struggled against DR Congo, Mexico swatted aside a round of 32 opponent just as attuned to altitude as they are. Home advantage has ignited El Tri’s World Cup and the density of the air isn’t the only reason.
FourFourTwo’s prediction
Mexico 2-1 England
FourFourTwo can’t see past the co-hosts in Mexico City. England haven’t played well enough to suggest they’ll overcome the odds.
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