World Cup 2026: England battle history in Mexico

England had hoped hundreds of Mexican fans would keep their position secret after hundreds of Mexican fans surrounded Ecuador’s base, car horns, roaring motorcycle engines and loud hooters caused a riot.

It was all to no avail as they were dropped off at a high security hotel in England after the arrival of their home fans.

Speaking at the Azteca, head coach Thomas Tuchel was enjoying the atmosphere and the preparations: “When we arrived, we saw the excitement and passion of the crowd. They were emotional but also very, very respectful.”

“We felt the energy of the place right away, the people on the street. You could feel the excitement. This is the next level.”

“I immediately felt that this was going to be a proper World Cup game. We’re in the East and in a famous stadium. It’s the biggest stage and we feel it.”

He added: “Mexico gives us the taste of energy, heat and we have to find a solution for this.”

It will be emotional and full of support for the home team. We are in a stadium that creates an atmosphere that is good for the home team and gives motivation and belief, but we have experienced players.

Diego Maradona’s Hand of God goal marked England’s last visit to the Azteca as Argentina advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a 2-1 win.

In the year It was Mexico in 1970, under Sir Alf Ramsey, where England began their ill-fated campaign to retain the World Cup they had won at Wembley four years earlier.

England’s decision to ship their own food to Mexico, some of which was seized – despite the fish fingers – angered the locals, who pride themselves on their hospitality.

Mexican fans protested against England and the tyrannical Ramsay, openly cheering for England’s rivals at every game.

And there was an embarrassing incident involving England’s inspirational captain Bobby Moore, who was accused of stealing a bracelet from a shop at his hotel in Bogota, Colombia, before the World Cup began.

Moore was worried that he might miss the start of the race, but he was eventually released innocently, with even then-Prime Minister Harold Wilson coming to his aid.