England prepare for Mexico challenge in World Cup last 16
England are set to face Mexico in the World Cup last 16 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. This match presents a significant challenge, particularly due to the altitude of over 7,000ft (2,200m) above sea level. Head coach Thomas Tuchel has indicated that this tournament would be defined by suffering, and England‘s preparations have focused on the heat in the US, but the altitude in Mexico City introduces a new factor.
Mexico, having performed strongly in their last-32 tie against Ecuador, are considered formidable opponents at the Azteca, where they have lost only twice in 89 competitive games. They will also benefit from strong home support and a physical advantage due to the high altitude. This environment suggests England will need a strategic approach rather than an exhibition of attacking football.
Tactical considerations for Mexico clash
To navigate the conditions and the strong opposition, England may need to adopt a more conservative tactical approach, potentially employing a low block to stifle Mexico. The worst strategy would be to allow the game to become chaotic, as Mexico possesses pace on the flanks and would likely exploit a high defensive line. England‘s pressing was noted to be disorganised during the early stages of their last-32 match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Historically, Mexican World Cups have been challenging for England. Their defence of the trophy in 1970 ended with a loss to West Germany in the last eight, and Diego Maradona eliminated them at the Azteca in 1986, also in a quarter-final. Lessons from the 1986 tournament suggest that adapting to the conditions is crucial. Glenn Hoddle, part of the 1986 squad, recounted difficulties with the altitude during a 1985 summer tournament in Mexico, where England had to adjust their style to conserve energy.
In the 1986 World Cup, after a poor start in the group stage, England adopted a more conservative approach, which led to a 3-0 win against Poland and another 3-0 victory against Paraguay at the Azteca in the last 16. This historical precedent suggests that a compact and controlled style, focusing on set pieces and counterattacks, could be beneficial. Tuchel might consider removing a winger to use Morgan Rogers as an additional midfielder and potentially move Ezri Konsa to right-back, bringing John Stones into central defence for his experience.
Squad depth and selection dilemmas
England‘s recent World Cup campaign has highlighted some persistent issues, despite their escape against the DR Congo. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have been pivotal, contributing goals and inspiration, particularly in wins against Croatia and Panama, and being key figures against DR Congo. However, there is a concern that England relies too heavily on these two players.
The right-back position has been a recurring problem, with various players filling the role. Declan Rice, typically a central midfielder, ended the match against DR Congo at right-back, a move that has drawn comment. While Alan Shearer noted Rice‘s contribution to the equaliser from that position, Micah Richards argued against it, stating Rice‘s energy is vital in midfield, especially at altitude. Richards suggested Ezri Konsa at right-back with John Stones alongside Marc Guehi in central defence.
Tuchel‘s squad selection has also faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the exclusion of natural creative players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden. While their club seasons were reportedly poor, England has shown a lack of creative force, notably in the goalless draw against Ghana. The debate continues over whether players like Morgan Gibbs-White or Alex Scott would have offered more creative options.
Concerns also exist regarding the backup strikers. Despite Kane‘s strong form, with goals for club and country this season, Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins have seen limited action. Toney, a surprise inclusion in the squad, has not played in England‘s four games, and Watkins received only six minutes as a substitute against Panama. This suggests that Tuchel is keeping his fingers crossed for Kane‘s continued fitness.
Former England captain Wayne Rooney expressed concerns about England‘s openness in midfield when losing possession, suggesting potential trouble against stronger teams if not addressed. The constant changes on the flanks further indicate that Tuchel may still be searching for his optimal starting eleven. England‘s journey continues to the Azteca Stadium for their last-16 encounter.
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Source: theguardian.com