England are preparing for one of their biggest tests at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Three Lions reached the Round of 16 with a dramatic comeback victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Harry Kane scored twice to overturn an early deficit as Thomas Tuchel’s side booked a meeting with tournament co-hosts Mexico.
The Three Lions now head to the iconic Estadio Azteca, where they will face a Mexico side yet to concede a goal during the tournament.
The hosts will also enjoy passionate home support, with their fans playing a major role throughout the competition.
However, England’s preparations could now be disrupted before a ball is even kicked.
According to The Mirror, FIFA regulations require teams to arrive in the host city at least 24 hours before kick-off.
Since England’s last-16 clash kicks off at 8pm local time on Sunday, Tuchel’s squad must be in Mexico City by Saturday evening.
That rule could hand Mexico supporters an opportunity to interfere with England’s preparations.
The report states that fans are planning to gather outside the team’s hotel with loudspeakers, cars, motorbikes and horns. They would want to keep the players awake before the match.
England had hoped to arrive in Mexico City as late as possible. They wanted to manage the effects of the high altitude.
The team also wanted to keep the location of their hotel secret after travelling from their training base in Kansas City. Mexico supporters have already employed similar tactics during the World Cup.
Ecuador’s Football Federation lodged an official complaint after fans gathered outside their hotel and attempted to disrupt the squad before their match.
Police could be present outside England’s hotel. But the report suggests controlling the atmosphere could prove difficult if large numbers of supporters arrive.
Tuchel’s side must now deal with another challenge before facing Mexico, with FIFA’s arrival rule leaving England vulnerable to the hostile atmosphere awaiting them in the host city.
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