England face Mexico in the round of 16 of the World Cup at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday night. A victory would set up a quarter-final clash against either Brazil or Norway on July 11 at Miami Stadium.
Massive challenge at the Azteca
Mexico have lost only two of their last 89 competitive matches at the Azteca, a fortress sitting over 2,000 metres above sea level. The last defeat came in September 2013, highlighting the difficulty for Thomas Tuchel's side. England's last visit to the stadium ended in a 2-1 loss to Argentina in the 1986 quarter-finals, marred by Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' and his stunning solo goal.
Who awaits in the quarter-finals?
If England progress, they will face the winner of the Brazil vs Norway match, which kicks off earlier on Sunday in New Jersey. Brazil topped Group C after wins over Haiti and Scotland and a draw with Morocco, then needed a late Gabriel Martinelli goal to beat Japan in the last 16. Norway finished second in Group I, beating Iraq and Senegal but losing to France, and edged past Ivory Coast with a late Erling Haaland winner.
Historical context
England last met Brazil in a World Cup in 2002, losing 2-1 in the quarter-finals despite Michael Owen's opener. The two sides have played six friendlies since, with Brazil winning 1-0 at Wembley in March 2024 thanks to Endrick's goal. England have never faced Norway in a major tournament, with their last meeting a 1-0 friendly win at Wembley in 2014.
