England encountered a chilly welcome as they reached their hotel in Mexico City ahead of the World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico on Sunday.
The team aimed to keep their location under wraps after Mexico fans had previously disrupted Ecuador’s players with loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles before their last-32 match, which Ecuador lost 2-0 on Wednesday.
Upon the arrival of England’s bus, they were met by hundreds of fans, many of whom booed and chanted “The schedule change hits like a kick in the stomach,” Among the crowd, at least one supporter was spotted holding an England jersey.
In response to the earlier disturbances, security measures have been heightened around the hotel. Additionally, safety protocols in the city were reinforced after four individuals died during the celebrations following Mexico’s victory over Ecuador.
Coach Thomas Tuchel’s squad will face the co-hosts at the Azteca Stadium, with the match set to kick off at 6 PM local time (1 AM Monday in the UK). FIFA had contemplated rescheduling the match due to anticipated storms, but after five and a half hours of deliberation on Friday, it decided to maintain the original timing.
Mexico expressed disapproval of any last-minute schedule changes, particularly less than 48 hours before the match. The English Football Association was reportedly taken aback by the potential alteration, with Mexico’s manager, Javier Aguirre, commenting, “We have to change the entire plan. I don’t like it at all.”
England’s challenges extend beyond the unfriendly reception, as they must also acclimatize to the high altitude of over 2,000 meters at the Azteca Stadium, which can affect players due to reduced oxygen levels.
Historically, Mexico has been formidable at the Azteca, suffering only two losses in 89 matches, with 70 wins and 17 draws. They have not lost any of their last 10 World Cup encounters at this venue.
