World Cup 2026

Five reasons why Mexico could beat England

Mexican fans hold huge hopes for El Tri who face England in the World Cup round of 16. Let’s look at which factors could work to their advantage.

Ulises Naranjo

César Cruz

México Update: Jul 3rd, 2026 13:14 EDT

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Mexico’s national team is riding its hottest World Cup streak in recent memory. With four straight wins, El Tri heads into Sunday’s Round of 16 matchup against England with confidence soaring and fans dreaming big.

After defeating Ecuador, Mexico snapped a 40‑year drought without a knockout‑stage victory. And beyond that historic milestone, there are several reasons why Mexico believes it can take down the Three Lions.

Mexico City’s altitude: a hidden weapon

One major factor: Mexico City’s elevation. The English squad isn’t accustomed to playing at 7,350 feet above sea level, a stark contrast to most of England, which sits barely 180 feet above sea level. The thin air at altitude affects stamina, ball movement, and recovery — all elements Mexico knows how to exploit.

Estadio Azteca: an impenetrable fortress

The legendary stadium — known locally as the Coloso de Santa Úrsula — has long been a stronghold for Mexico. El Tri has never lost a World Cup match played there, and only twice in its entire history has the team been beaten on that field. Home‑field advantage doesn’t get more real than this.

Five reasons why Mexico could beat England — Mexican fans hold huge hopes for the green team and will now face England in the World Cup round of 16.FOTO: agencias

A defense that refuses to break

Mexico is one of the few teams in the tournament that hasn’t conceded a single goal through four matches. With a rock‑solid back line and goalkeeper Raúl Rangel in peak form, the team has kept its net untouched — though Sunday brings a major test in the form of Harry Kane.

England’s ghosts in Mexico City

England’s history in Mexico City is… complicated. The last time the English flag flew at Estadio Azteca was June 22, 1986, when Diego Maradona delivered both the “Hand of God” and the “Goal of the Century.” Different era, different team — but the memories still sting.

Raúl Jiménez: Pickford’s bogeyman

Mexico striker Raúl Jiménez has a remarkable scoring record against England’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Jiménez has put six goals past him — more than he’s scored against any other keeper. If he sees minutes on Sunday, that history could matter.