Why England won't fear Mexico or the Azteca - Shearer

Alan Shearer, a former England captain, asserts that the current England squad possesses the mentality to thrive in the intimidating environment of the Azteca Stadium against Mexico. He dismisses concerns about the altitude, atmosphere, and the partisan crowd, stating that the players will likely embrace the challenge rather than fear it.

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Instead of having any fear about the different tests they face, they will just be thinking 'bring it on'.

Shearer highlights that such high-stakes matches in iconic venues are precisely what players train for. He draws a personal connection, recalling his own childhood dream of playing at the Azteca, a stadium he last saw in action during the 1986 World Cup. This upcoming match marks England's return to the venue since their memorable 1986 quarter-final loss to Argentina, promising a spectacular and unique test.

While acknowledging the significant home advantage Mexico will have, with potentially 80% of the crowd supporting them, Shearer contrasts this with England's experience so far in the tournament, where they have often had majority support. He anticipates that any pre-match disruptions, such as noise or fireworks, will not faze the England players, drawing parallels to incidents before domestic league matches.

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Yes, it's going to be tough, because of the altitude and the atmosphere and everything else.

Regarding Mexico's formidable record at the Azteca, having lost only twice in 89 competitive matches since 1966, Shearer remains unfazed. He argues that the quality of opposition faced in those matches has varied, suggesting the record is not an insurmountable barrier for England. He believes players are aware of such statistics but will view them as another challenge to overcome.

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Co-hosts Mexico are at home and the crowd could be as much as 80% of their fans, which is very different to anything England have faced at this tournament so far.

Looking at the tactical side, Shearer points out potential selection dilemmas for England's manager, Thomas Tuchel. He identifies Julian Quinones as a key threat for Mexico and suggests that while a more defensive right-back like Djed Spence might offer stability, it could impact England's attacking prowess. Similar considerations apply to the wing positions, where player rotation has been a feature.

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But as a player, these are the kind of games and moments you train and work so hard for all your life because to be going to such an iconic stadium and playing in a World Cup in front of a TV audience of millions, with a place in the quarter-finals as the prize, is what you dream of as a boy.