England’s World Cup team hotel in Mexico City was found by Mexico fans, who greeted the squad’s arrival with boos and chants of “Mexico!” on Friday. The scene added an unexpected layer of tension before a major knockout match, even as the atmosphere stayed more spirited than hostile.
Security had already been increased outside the hotel after Ecuador reported a noisy build-up before facing Mexico in the Round of 32. Ecuador’s football federation filed a formal complaint with FIFA after a night of disturbances from Mexican supporters.
Hotel Arrival Met By Noise
Police officers and members of Mexico’s National Guard lined the entrance as the England players arrived. Several hundred fans gathered outside, booing the team bus and chanting “Mexico!” while a smaller group of England supporters tried to answer back.
According to the BBC’s Will Grant, the mood was lively rather than confrontational. Some Mexican fans later told the BBC that England and its supporters were welcome in Mexico City.
England Braces For More Than Noise
England midfielder Morgan Rogers said the players would have to handle any disturbance as best they could. “I won’t be happy if it wakes me up. I’ll be honest,” he said about possible noise while the team sleeps. “We’ll see how it goes but we’ll deal with it as best as possible. It’s just another obstacle to overcome but we’re ready.”
Extra security was also brought in after four people died during late-night street celebrations following Mexico’s win over Ecuador. Emergency teams had already treated three unconscious people at different locations around Paseo de la Reforma, where giant screens were set up for fans to watch games.
What England Faces At Estadio Azteca
| Fixture Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | England vs Mexico |
| Stage | Round of 16 |
| Venue | Estadio Azteca |
| Kickoff | 8 p.m. ET |
The kickoff time was reportedly close to being moved because thunderstorms and heavy rain were expected in the area during the afternoon. Both teams were left confused on Friday over whether the change was real, and The Times reported that the English FA spent the day trying to clarify the situation.
Beyond the noise and scheduling uncertainty, England also has to deal with altitude. Estadio Azteca sits more than 7,300 feet above sea level, which means players will be working with lower oxygen levels.
Mexico’s Strong Record At The Stadium
| Estadio Azteca Record | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Matches in last 89 | Mexico lost 2, won 70, drew 17 |
| World Cup matches unbeaten | 10 |
| Last home loss | 2-0 to the United States in September 2013 |
Mexico has historically been difficult to beat at Estadio Azteca. El Tri have lost only twice in their last 89 matches there, and they are unbeaten in all 10 World Cup matches played at the stadium, including three during this tournament.
The stadium’s last Mexico defeat came in September 2013, when the team lost 2-0 to the United States in qualifying for the 2014 World Cup. That record gives Sunday night’s match another layer of pressure for England beyond the crowd outside its hotel.
