World Cup 2026: Mexico Aims to Break Round of 16 Curse Against England; Brazil Faces Norway

Mexico is set to face England in a pivotal World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match, with the host nation's fans rallying behind 'El Tri' at the iconic Azteca Stadium. Mexico has never won a fifth World Cup match, a persistent hurdle in their tournament history, having suffered seven consecutive eliminations in the Round of 16 since 1994.

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I am one of those who could not get past the fifth game. It happened to me in Korea-Japan and in South Africa, and it hurts a lot. You have a good first phase and you get eliminated for various circumstances.

Coach Javier Aguirre acknowledged the pain of past failures, stating, "I am one of those who could not get past the fifth game." Despite this history, Mexico has achieved a significant milestone by winning their first four matches, fueling national hope with the slogan "¿Y si sí?" (What if yes?). The team's strong defense, having kept clean sheets in all four games, and the advantage of playing at high altitude in Mexico City are seen as key factors against England.

England's captain, Harry Kane, who has scored five goals in the tournament, poses a significant threat. Kane acknowledged the challenge, saying, "Against Mexico in Mexico, it will be an incredible and difficult atmosphere, but if we want to be world champions, we have to face difficult games." England's last appearance at the Azteca in 1986 ended in elimination by Argentina, marked by Diego Maradona's famous goals, a memory Mexico hopes to evoke.

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Against Mexico in Mexico, it will be an incredible and difficult atmosphere, but if we want to be world champions, we have to face difficult games.

Meanwhile, Brazil faces Norway in another high-stakes match. The Brazilian team is aware of the challenges, particularly the altitude in Mexico City, which could affect their performance. The match between Brazil and Norway is scheduled for 3:00 pm, followed by Mexico vs. England at 7:00 pm, both live on TVMAX and other platforms.

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Perhaps it will be one of the most beautiful, most exciting games that can be had. We play against Mexico in the Azteca.