Marcus Rashford insisted England are not intimidated by the prospect of taking on Mexico at the high-altitude Azteca Stadium, even though he acknowledged their World Cup last-16 meeting would be a demanding test.
Key takeaways
- Rashford said England feel prepared for the challenge of playing Mexico at Azteca Stadium.
- The England camp recognises the last-16 tie as a tough assignment.
- England are scheduled to travel south later on Friday from their base in Kansas City.
- The match venue in Mexico City is positioned at 2,240 metres above sea level.
- At that altitude, players can receive less oxygen and the ball can move more quickly over longer distances.
England head to Mexico City after travel plans confirmed
Thomas Tuchel’s squad are set to depart their Kansas City base later Friday, heading toward Mexico City to prepare for an encounter at a venue often described as a fortress due to its intense atmosphere and home advantage for the co-hosts.
Altitude expected to shape the match
The Azteca Stadium pitch sits 2,240 metres (7,350 feet) above sea level in Mexico City. At those heights, the air is thinner, which reduces the amount of oxygen delivered with each breath. That physiological challenge can affect how players manage their energy and stamina, while also influencing the ball’s behaviour by allowing it to travel faster and farther through the air.
