England lineup against Mexico in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup
For the round of 16 clash with Mexico, Thomas Tuchel will look to use his best men against the side managed by Javier Aguirre.
England arrived in Ciudad de México to put the finishing touches on their preparations for Sunday’s World Cup round of 16 clash against Mexico, a match in which the Three Lions will need to deliver a near-flawless performance against a side that has been virtually unbeatable at its fortress, the Estadio Ciudad de México.
Thomas Tuchel knows the scale of the challenge awaiting his team. Mexico, backed by a passionate home crowd and aided by the demanding conditions of Mexico City’s altitude, will look to make the most of every advantage.
England, however, will aim to minimise those disadvantages and level the playing field. The Three Lions possess the quality and experience needed to cope with those external factors while taking on a Mexican side that has also impressed throughout its first four matches of the tournament.
As a result, Mexico should face an England team determined to field Thomas Tuchel’s strongest available lineup from the opening whistle, setting the stage for a high-quality contest at the Estadio Ciudad de México.
Another important factor heading into the match is England’s likely return of several key players. One of them is Reece James, who missed the Three Lions’ previous two matches but is expected to be available again.
Everything also points to Declan Rice returning after recovering from the discomfort he experienced during England’s round of 32 victory over DR Congo. The midfielder is expected to reclaim his pivotal role in the heart of England’s midfield.
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Defenders: Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, Nico O’Reilly
Midfielders: Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham
Attackers: Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Anthony Gordon
It’s nearly time for our next game 👊#ThreeLions | @EASPORTSFC. pic.twitter.com/Z0xrrQGZfZ
— England (@England) July 4, 2026
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