England endure hostile reception ahead of FIFA World Cup match against Mexico

England endure hostile reception ahead of FIFA World Cup match against Mexico

The knockout tie will go ahead at its originally scheduled kick-off time of 02:00 SAST on Sunday after FIFA abandoned plans to alter the fixture.

The governing body had explored bringing the game forward by six hours because of forecasts of severe storms, with the proposal surfacing less than 48 hours before kick-off.

However, both the Football Association and the Mexican Football Federation objected to the change, ensuring the original schedule remained in place.

England reached Mexico City on Friday, two days before the contest, and were met by hundreds of local supporters gathered outside their hotel. As the team coach arrived, sections of the crowd jeered the visitors while others repeatedly chanted "Mexico".

The team had hoped to keep the location of their accommodation confidential, although there had been concerns it would eventually become public knowledge.

Security around the hotel has since been strengthened following a complaint submitted to FIFA by Ecuador after their previous stay at the same venue.

Ecuador, who were beaten 2-0 by Mexico in the Round of 32, alleged their players were intentionally prevented from sleeping by supporters outside the Westin Hotel. Loudspeakers, vehicle horns and motorcycles were reportedly used late into the night.

England are also preparing for the demands of playing at altitude, with Mexico City situated approximately 2,240 metres above sea level.
 

Related News

Jesse Marsch expects Canada's toughest World Cup challenge against Morocco

Jesse Marsch expects Canada's toughest World Cup challenge against Morocco

  • 46 minutes ago

Canada coach Jesse Marsch insists there is no desire for revenge when his side face Morocco in Saturday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, despite their painful defeat to the North Africans four years ago.

FIFA World Cup: France prepared for heatwave ahead of Paraguay encounter

FIFA World Cup: France prepared for heatwave ahead of Paraguay encounter

  • 2 hours ago

France will head into Saturday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Paraguay as favourites, while extremely hot conditions in Philadelphia poses an extra challenge.

Jurgen Klopp confirms DFB talks to become Germany manager

Jurgen Klopp confirms DFB talks to become Germany manager

  • 3 hours ago

Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he has held talks with the German Football Association (DFB) about becoming Germany's next head coach following Julian Nagelsmann's departure.

Orlando Pirates development coach explains what makes Mbekezeli Mbokazi a true warrior

Orlando Pirates development coach explains what makes Mbekezeli Mbokazi a true warrior

  • 3 hours ago

Orlando Pirates development coach Joseph Makhanya believes Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi's fearless style of play is a reflection of the tough environment in which he grew up in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal.