The team trained at Pumas UNAM’s Cantera complex after arriving in Mexico City on Friday, starting to acclimatize to the altitude ahead of facing an unbeaten Mexico team supported by an energetic home crowd.
“We are in a legendary place, an iconic stadium, and it’s a massive game—a knockout match against Mexico at the Azteca,” Tuchel stated to the press. “This is a legendary match and a significant stage, and we can feel it.”
A lot of the pre-match discussion has focused on Mexico City’s 2,200-meter elevation, especially since England had just four days to prepare after their round-of-32 win over DR Congo before Sunday’s game.
During the 15 minutes of open training available to the media, England’s players seemed at ease, sharing jokes and smiles while going through their warm-up routines.
Tuchel acknowledged the challenges posed by the conditions in the capital and emphasized that his players would not use them as an excuse.
“The players noticed it in the early moments of the training session, but as it progressed, they adapted better,” the German coach explained. “It’s simply part of it.”
He also brushed aside claims that his team was expecting a hostile atmosphere, despite going up against the co-hosts in front of a passionate home crowd.
“I don’t foresee a hostile environment,” he remarked. “I believe it will be emotional and filled with support for the home team. The altitude is what it is. The home crowd, it is what it is.
“We must navigate these challenges, but we have the spirit, determination, and strong team bond to overcome such hurdles.”
‘IT DOESN’T GET MUCH BIGGER’
Midfielder Jordan Henderson noted that England has embraced the significance of the event rather than dwelling on any difficulties.
“It doesn’t get much more exciting or larger than playing Mexico in Mexico City at this stadium,” the 36-year-old stated.
“This is an incredible event for everyone. Mexico is a very strong side, and it will be a tough challenge, but everyone is eager to be part of this game.”
Henderson resonated with his manager’s sentiment that England’s focus remains on elements within their control.
“We cannot control aspects like altitude or kickoff times,” he mentioned.
“For us, it’s about maintaining full focus on the task at hand. No excuses. We are ready to go.”
This match marks England’s return to the Azteca for competitive play for the first time since their 1986 World Cup quarter-final loss to Argentina, famously known for Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal and his dazzling solo goal later dubbed the “Goal of the Century.”
Tuchel dismissed the notion that Sunday’s match held any sense of unfinished business.
“We are not here for revenge,” he affirmed. “We are here to create our own story. We are in good spirits and fully prepared for tomorrow.”
