England battle Mexico as Brazil face Norway in last-16 clashes

England faces a daunting World Cup clash against Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca, a venue steeped in history for the Three Lions.

The highly anticipated match comes 40 years after England's infamous "Hand of God" game against Argentina at the same stadium in the 1986 World Cup. Manager Thomas Tuchel's side has shown a shaky performance so far, needing a late brace from captain Harry Kane to scrape past the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in the previous round.

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The altitude will be, of course, a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it in four days. It’s just impossible.

England, who harbors hopes of ending a 60-year wait for a major title, has yet to fully convince, struggling through the group stage before their narrow escape against DR Congo. They will also need to contend with the significant challenge of playing at an altitude of approximately 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) in Mexico City.

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It just catches you straight away once you get in here and see the excitement and see the emotions.

"The altitude will be, of course, a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it in four days. It’s just impossible," Tuchel stated before the team's journey to Mexico City. He later remarked on the stadium's atmosphere, noting, "It just catches you straight away once you get in here and see the excitement and see the emotions."

Mexico, in contrast, has been in formidable form at home, winning all four of their matches without conceding a goal. Their 2-0 victory over Ecuador marked their first knockout stage win in 40 years. Despite England's higher FIFA ranking, Mexico's coach Javier Aguirre believes the game will be a "near-perfect match" decided by "11 v 11," emphasizing his team's readiness to challenge the favored English side.

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They have major players who play both inside and outside the country. They’re