England were 15 minutes from one of the most abject humiliations in their World Cup history until Harry Kane’s late heroics rescued them – but now Thomas Tuchel must solve a problem that has left him warning Mexico will have a “huge advantage” over his side.
Kane scored twice to overcome DR Congo in the last-16, a result that would have ranked alongside the defeat by Iceland at Euro 2016 and the loss to the United States in 1950 as a national embarrassment. The win keeps England’s dream alive, but cracks were exposed – not least in selection and performance – as they head to the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City to face the joint hosts.
“England face Mexico at high altitude after needing late Kane heroics to avoid humiliation against DR Congo.”
Tuchel’s side will walk into a cauldron of 7,200 feet above sea level, where Mexico have lost just twice in 89 competitive games. They have already beaten South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic and Ecuador in this tournament without conceding a goal.
“Yes, it’s a huge advantage,” Tuchel said of the altitude, which saps energy and makes the ball fly differently. “The ball will fly maybe five yards more. It’s just difficult.”
FIFA rules insist opposing teams are in the city at least 24 hours, preventing England from using a last-minute arrival that sports science suggests can limit adverse effects. Instead, England will fly out on Friday evening – just under 48 hours before kick-off, which research shows is the maximum limit before serious side-effects kick in.
The Football Association have taken expert advice, liaising with the British Olympic Association and speaking to other sports, Tuchel said: “We have done our homework. Team GB was a part of it. All the experts. The FA did it for me and gave me all the info.”
Tuchel’s selection problems are deepening. The sight of Declan Rice – the glue that holds England together in midfield – ending the win against DR Congo at right-back once again hinted at confusion. The right-back position has become a poisoned chalice, either through injuries or loss of form.
Kane and Jude Bellingham have been England’s standout performers, contributing goals and world-class inspiration. Anthony Gordon had an outstanding impact off the bench, but it was a frustrating day for Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke, while Bukayo Saka is managing an Achilles problem. “It would help England and Tuchel’s cause if others could come to the party,” noted BBC Sport’s Phil McNulty. “As good as Kane and Bellingham are, there will come a day when they do not bail under-performing team-mates and their head coach out.”
If Tuchel knows his best team, he is hiding it well – and the amount of shuffling suggests he does not. Now, with altitude threatening to leave even elite athletes wilting, England must produce one of the greatest achievements on foreign soil to avoid an early exit.