Ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash, Mexico fans have taken extreme measures to support their national team by disrupting the sleep of England players. A large crowd gathered outside the hotel where the Three Lions are staying, using drums, trumpets, firecrackers, and loud musical instruments, while singing and shouting slogans throughout the early hours, according to Goal.com.
Hostile Welcome for England
England received a hostile reception upon arriving at their Mexico City hotel on Saturday. Hundreds of fans booed the visitors, chanted "Mexico," and held up an England shirt in a noisy demonstration. Security was heavily present to manage the crowd.
The disruption mirrors tactics used earlier in the tournament, when Mexico supporters used loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles to disturb Ecuador's sleep before their Round of 32 match. Mexico won that match 2-0 on Wednesday, as reported by Sky Sports.
Altitude and Azteca Record Add Pressure
England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the challenges posed by high altitude, admitting to experiencing a "slight headache" and difficulty sleeping. "I felt, for example, a slight headache in the hotel room through the day, I did not sleep as well as the days before but nothing that you cannot handle and you cannot adapt," Tuchel told Sky Sports. He noted that players felt the altitude in the first minutes of training but adapted over time.
The Estadio Azteca, situated at 7,220 feet (2,240 meters) above sea level, presents a formidable venue. Mexico have lost only twice in competitive matches at the Azteca since 1966, recording 70 wins and 17 draws in 89 matches. The thinner air reduces oxygen levels and makes the ball travel faster, adding to the difficulty for visiting teams.
Tuchel's Strategy for the Match
Tuchel warned his side to stay focused, particularly in the opening minutes. "I think it is not a coincidence that Mexico start their matches normally on home turf very, very strong, very front-footed, very aggressively because I think the first 15-20 minutes will be maybe the toughest for us. Once we overcome that I think we are in a good place," he said.
Security has been tightened across Mexico City following disturbances and after four people were killed during celebrations of Mexico's victory over Ecuador. The Ecuadorian Football Federation had previously complained about the disruption to their players' sleep.
The Round of 16 match between England and Mexico is scheduled for July 6 at 5:30 AM IST at the Estadio Azteca.
