England coach Thomas Tuchel is optimistic that “karma” will favor his team as they prepare to face Mexico in a World Cup last-16 match at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday. This encounter marks England’s first return to the iconic stadium since the 1986 quarter-final when Diego Maradona scored two of the most memorable goals in football history, including the controversial “Hand of God” strike that helped Argentina to a 2-1 victory.
Tuchel, who vividly recalls watching that tournament as a child, expressed belief that England will be able to “right the wrongs” of that moment. “We will get it back. It’s karma. Karma will come back for us. We will turn it around,” he said, referencing Maradona’s infamous goals—one a remarkable solo effort and the other a handball not allowed under today’s regulations. The German coach described the Azteca as an “iconic stadium” that carries historical weight, noting its distinctive features and atmospheric intensity.
Despite his confidence in the psychological aspect, Tuchel acknowledged that England faces significant practical challenges, particularly due to the high altitude of Mexico City, located over 2,000 meters above sea level. Travel and acclimatization will be critical factors. The Football Association has planned for the team to arrive a day earlier than usual, flying in on Friday to balance the need for adaptation without prolonged exposure. Tuchel explained that the ball’s behavior would be affected by the thinner air, potentially traveling up to five yards farther, complicating the match conditions.
“The recommendation is you either go 10 days before—which is too long for us—or last minute, which is not allowed,” Tuchel noted. “We find a mixture in between, but it will stay as a disadvantage.” He conceded that Mexico has a “huge advantage” playing on home turf under these conditions but maintained that England must manage the situation as best as possible.
In addition to physical challenges, the English team must contend with the intense atmosphere inside the Azteca, known for its passionate and vocal crowd. Mexican fans have demonstrated their fervor throughout the tournament, including efforts to disrupt Ecuador’s preparations in the previous round. Tuchel anticipated a hostile environment from early on, saying, “We will expect that… but what shall we do? We will bring stuff [like ear plugs], of course, but I expect everything.”
England advanced to the last-16 following a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo. The team now faces the formidable task of overcoming a storied Mexican side, energized by both altitude and home support, in one of football’s most historic venues.