MEXICO CITY – England’s World Cup squad received a hostile reception from sections of Mexican supporters after arriving at their team hotel in Mexico City on Friday night ahead of Sunday’s Round-of-16 encounter with the tournament hosts.
Crowds gathered outside the hotel chanting and booing as the Three Lions arrived, with many home supporters hoping to unsettle the England team before one of the biggest matches of the competition.
Despite the hostile atmosphere, some fans waiting outside the hotel said they remained admirers of English club football, particularly Premier League sides, while backing Mexico at international level.
“I’m from Mexico. Of course I support Mexico,” one supporter told Reuters.
“But I’m also a devoted Arsenal fan. I’m a member of the Arsenal Supporters Club and I’m here representing them today. I came to see the players after we won the Premier League title.”
England face an additional challenge in Sunday’s match, with the fixture taking place at the Estadio Azteca, situated approximately 2,200 metres (7,220 feet) above sea level. The altitude is expected to test the fitness and endurance of visiting teams, while giving Mexico a familiar advantage.
There have also been concerns that enthusiastic home support could attempt to disrupt England’s preparations ahead of the knockout tie.
However, members of the England camp have insisted they relish the challenge of facing the hosts in a packed stadium and are embracing the atmosphere rather than fearing it.
The Round-of-16 fixture between England and Mexico will be played at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Sunday, with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals at stake.
Source: Reuters
