England’s clash against Mexico is one of the games of the tournament so far, with Thomas Tuchel’s men heading into enemy territory with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals on the line.
The Azteca has so far looked like this tournament’s most intimidating venue, and the traveling English fans have their work cut out for them to match the hosts’ energy.
They might get fired up quickly enough once they see the rather tongue-in-cheek gesture the Mexicans have left them in every single seat at the ground.
Join our live blog ahead of kick-off as England take on host nation Mexico at the Estadio Azteca
A Mexican flag waiting for every England fan at the Azteca Stadium
We have seen all three host nations benefit from home advantage at this tournament. Canada have exited after a 3-0 loss to Morocco, but not before putting in some quality performances on home soil, like the 6-0 win against Qatar.
The US topped their group, looking like one of the best teams in the tournament so far.
But Mexico might have the best home advantage of all. Their iconic 87,523-seater stadium in Mexico City is the biggest in Latin America.
English hearts have been broken at the famous ground, where Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal sent the Three Lions out of the 1986 World Cup to eventual winners Argentina.
The mental warfare began in the days leading up to the tie, with Mexico fans doing everything to disrupt the players and staff at their hotel. Now the stadium runners have joined in.
As Away Days shared on X: “80,000 Mexican flags are being placed throughout the Azteca for tonight’s game, one on each seat (even the English fans)…
“This might be the most non-neutral World Cup game of all time.”
Obviously, those rooting for England won’t be hoisting it, but it’s a reminder that they are deep behind enemy lines. That, paired with the booming roars and thin air, is sure to create a hostile environment.
Let’s see who handles the heat best.
READ MORE:
How England were ‘welcomed’ at hotel ahead of hostile World Cup clash with Mexico
Why owners of England vs Mexico venue Azteca Stadium promised FIFA $62m World Cup payment
England to set up roadblocks to deal with intense atmosphere in Mexico ahead of World Cup clash
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