Tuchel praises respectful Mexico fans amid increased security

England coach Thomas Tuchel has dismissed concerns over his team's treatment in Mexico, stating that the experience has been "nicer than I expected" and that home fans have been "friendly and respectful."

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nicer than I expected

Tuchel's team is preparing to face World Cup co-hosts Mexico in a last-16 match. The team encountered a mix of cheers and jeers upon leaving their hotel for training, with enhanced security measures in place. These measures followed a noise complaint lodged by Ecuador after Mexico fans disrupted their sleep with loudspeakers and motorbikes. National Guard members and riot police were present around England's hotel.

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friendly and respectful

"We had no issues tonight and I think Fifa took care of the situation," Tuchel said. "We have security around the hotel so we expect a good night's sleep." He added, "What I experienced until now was very respectful and emotional and very supportive to towards our teams so are very respectful towards everyone. We expect to be treated with respect and that was the case."

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We had no issues tonight and I think Fifa took care of the situation. We have security around the hotel so we expect a good night's sleep.

Tuchel also addressed the significant altitude in Mexico City, where the Estadio Azteca sits 7,220 feet above sea level. He acknowledged feeling a slight headache and noted that players felt the thinner air in the initial minutes of training. "It is just what it is. We cannot physically adapt, it is impossible. But we are here one day before to experience it at least," he said. He anticipates Mexico starting matches aggressively due to the altitude but believes England can cope after the initial phase.

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What I experienced until now was very respectful and emotional and very supportive to towards our teams so are very respectful towards everyone. We expect to be treated with respect and that was the case.