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World Cup: England boss Tuchel concerned about altitude ahead of Mexico clash
03rd July, 2026 12:22 PM
England booked a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after coming from behind to defeat the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 on Wednesday, with Harry Kane netting both goals. However, an even sterner assignment now awaits as the Three Lions prepare to face tournament co-hosts Mexico on Monday, July 6, 2026.
The upcoming encounter presents more than just a hostile atmosphere, as England will also have to contend with the demanding high-altitude conditions in Mexico City, where they will have very little time to adjust before kickoff.
England’s victory over DR Congo took place in Atlanta, located about 300 metres above sea level. Their next match will be played in Mexico City, which sits approximately 2,240 metres above sea level. At that elevation, the thinner air contains less oxygen, making physical exertion significantly more challenging.
Sports scientists generally recommend that athletes spend over a week at high altitude to allow the body to adapt by increasing red blood cell production and improving oxygen delivery. England, though, is expected to reach Mexico City just two days before Monday’s knockout fixture.
Advantaged Mexico
Mexico enters the match with a clear advantage, having already played three World Cup games in the capital and another in Guadalajara, a city that lies 1,566 metres above sea level. As a result, the hosts are already well adjusted to competing in such conditions.
The impact of the altitude was evident during Ecuador’s 2-0 defeat to Mexico in Tuesday’s round of 32 encounter. Ecuador, which had impressed defensively earlier in the tournament, struggled to cope with Mexico’s speed and intensity and looked far from the team that had previously beaten Germany.
Before facing Mexico, Ecuador had contested matches near sea level in New Jersey and Philadelphia, while its draw against Curacao in Kansas City was played at an elevation of roughly 280 metres.
Following England’s victory, head coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side.
“The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it.”
“It just takes too much time. We have only three days in between these matches. It’s physically just not possible to adapt to the altitude.”
“This is just something with which we will have to deal. I think we showed the attitude that we are ready for that.” He noted.
Meanwhile, Tuchel is under pressure to get the best from the English side, as they aim to all the way and even lift the trophy for the first time since 1966.
