- England faces a significant challenge in their World Cup 2026 match against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, which is situated 7,220 ft (2,240 m) above sea level.
- The high altitude means thinner air and less oxygen, which will impede England players' physical performance and make recovery runs more difficult.
- England manager Thomas Tuchel described the altitude as a “big disadvantage” that his team cannot fully adapt to in the four days before the match.
- Experts warn that arriving two days before the game, as England plans, is considered one of the “worst arrival times” for performance due to limited acclimatisation.
- Mexico holds a formidable home record at the Azteca and has played most of its tournament games there, giving it a significant advantage despite some of its players not living at altitude.
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