No time for England to adapt to altitude - Tuchel

England's World Cup journey faces a significant challenge as head coach Thomas Tuchel warns of the insufficient time his team will have to adapt to the high altitude of Mexico City. The Three Lions are scheduled to play Mexico in the Azteca Stadium, located approximately 7,200 feet above sea level, on July 6.

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The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it.

Tuchel highlighted the stark contrast between England's situation and that of their opponents. Mexico has played all four of their World Cup matches at high altitudes, including three at the Azteca Stadium and one in Guadalajara (around 5,000 feet above sea level). This consistent exposure means Mexican players are already accustomed to the thinner air, which reduces oxygen intake and poses difficulties for athletes.

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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.

"The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it," Tuchel stated. "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." Research indicates that athletes typically need one to two weeks at altitude to acclimatize and increase red blood cell production. England's arrival just two days before the match leaves them at a considerable disadvantage.

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That is just a huge advantage that Mexico will have.

Despite the looming obstacle, Tuchel expressed readiness to confront the challenge. "That is just a huge advantage that Mexico will have," he added. "More obstacles may come, but we are ready for that." He emphasized that the team has shown the right attitude to deal with such difficulties.

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More obstacles may come, but we are ready for that.