England will face World Cup co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Monday.

What are the challenges?

The Estadio Azteca is 2,240 metres above sea level, and pollution will be a significant problem. A notorious smog plus a strong stench of diesel fill the Mexico City air. Former Colombia international Franky Oviedo spent four years playing for Club America and admits both the altitude and pollution will be tough to combat.

How will it affect England's performance?

The pollution, combined with the lack of air, is awful, it suffocates you. At altitude, the ball travels faster, it slows down less because the air is thinner. Juan Angel Hernandez, a sports medicine doctor at UNAM, has warned England must be prepared for a significant drop in performance levels.

What comes next?

England's recent form has been 2W-0D-2L, with a 2-game winning run. Their last result was a 4-2 win over Croatia on 2026-06-17. | Date | Opponent | Result | | --- | --- | --- | | 2026-06-17 | Croatia | 4-2 | | 2026-09-26 | Spain | -

England will need to overcome the challenges posed by Mexico to advance in the World Cup