Mexico and England are set for a major World Cup clash in the Round of 16. The game will take place at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Mexico recently broke a 40-year curse by winning a World Cup knockout game. This victory led to huge celebrations across the country. Excitement grew even more when England was announced as their next opponent.
The Azteca Stadium holds a special place in England's history. It was the venue where Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal eliminated England from the 1986 tournament.
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Start Your News DetoxHow the Teams Reached the Round of 16
Mexico had a perfect run in Group A, winning all three games against South Africa, South Korea, and Czechia. They then beat Ecuador 2-0 in the last-32, marking their first knockout win since 1986.
England topped Group L with seven points. They defeated Croatia and Panama but drew with Ghana. In the last-32, England secured a late 2-1 comeback victory against DR Congo to make it to the next round.
The Challenge of the Azteca
Playing at the Azteca Stadium presents unique challenges. The stadium sits 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level. This high altitude can make the ball travel faster and farther, and players might experience breathlessness. The passionate Mexican crowd also adds to the intense atmosphere.
England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the significance of the venue. He called it an "iconic place, an iconic stadium" that immediately creates excitement.
Despite the home advantages for Mexico, England is looking forward to the match. The Azteca hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals, making it a historic venue.
Diego Maradona of Argentina handles the ball past Peter Shilton of England to score the opening goal – often referred to as the ‘Hand of God’ goal – in the World Cup quarterfinal at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, Mexico on 22 June 1986. Argentina won the quarterfinal 2-1 [Bongarts/Getty Images]
England entered the World Cup hoping to end their 60-year wait for a major title. However, they have struggled to live up to their FIFA world ranking of Number 4, needing a late comeback against DR Congo.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre believes the game will come down to "11 vs 11" on the field. He praised England's "major players" and their physical strength. Mexico is aiming for its first quarterfinal appearance in 40 years.
England manager Thomas Tuchel during a news conference on Saturday [Henry Romero/Reuters]
Match Details and Predictions
The Opta supercomputer predicts England has a 40.6% chance of winning in regulation time, while Mexico has a 31.5% chance. There's a 27.9% chance the game will go to extra time or penalties.
The match is on Sunday, July 5, at 6pm Central Standard Time (00:00 GMT on Monday).
The winner of this match will play either Brazil or Norway in the quarterfinals in Miami on Saturday, July 11.
Head-to-Head History
This is only the second time England and Mexico have met in a World Cup. Their first encounter was in the 1966 World Cup, where England beat Mexico 2-0. England went on to win their only World Cup title that year.
England has won their last four games against Mexico, all of which were friendly matches between 1986 and 2010.
Mexico fans celebrate their team’s accomplishment of breaking a 40-year curse with a World Cup knockout win [Luis Cortes/Reuters]
Team News and Predicted Lineups
England defenders Jarrell Quansah (ankle) and Reece James (hamstring) are out due to injuries. Mexico has no reported injury concerns.
Mexico’s predicted lineup (4-3-3): Rangel (goalkeeper); Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo; Mora, Lira, Romo; Alvardo, Jimenez, Quinones
England’s predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Pickford (goalkeeper); Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane
Mexico forward Julian Quinones is their leading scorer at the 2026 World Cup with three goals [Yuri Cortez/AFP]
