England coach Thomas Tuchel believes fate could finally turn on his side when they return to the iconic Azteca Stadium, insisting “it’s karma” as the Three Lions prepare to face co-hosts Mexico in a high-stakes FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash.Forty years later Diego MaradonaThe infamous “Hand of God” goal helped Argentina eliminate England at the same venue during the 1986 World Cup, Tuchel says history could come full circle on Sunday.England will not only face a passionate home crowd, but also the daunting challenge of playing at more than 7,300 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level, where Mexico boast an unbeaten record in 10 World Cup matches across three tournaments.
‘It’s karma’ as England return to Azteca
Despite acknowledging the huge challenge presented by the altitude, Tuchel spoke confidently when asked about England’s return to one of football’s most historic stadiums.“We’ll get it back. It’s karma,” Tuchel said. “Karma will come back to haunt us. We will turn it around.”The German coach admitted there was little England could do to prepare physically for the conditions.“I understand that we can’t adapt to the altitude. That’s just a big advantage that Mexico will have,” Tuchel said. – It simply takes too much time.Sports scientists generally recommend at least two weeks of acclimatization for athletes competing at high altitude, a luxury England do not have after settling in Kansas City following a pre-tournament camp in Florida.Instead, Tuchel will be hoping his players can overcome the conditions with tactical discipline and mental resilience.
Hydration breaks could prove decisive
With the altitude expected to test both teams, Tuchel believes hydration breaks could once again become a valuable tactical tool.England made good use of the stoppages during their round of 32 final victory over DR Congo, recovering from an early setback to claim a 2-1 victory.I do most of that, said Tuchel. “You know I don’t really like them. I enjoy football more when it’s played with momentum, but of course they’re there and why wouldn’t I try to use them?”The Azteca remains one of England’s most painful World Cup venues after Maradona’s memorable quarter-final performance in 1986, when he scored the controversial “Hand of God” goal before scoring one of the greatest solo goals in the tournament’s history.Now, four decades later, England have the chance to make happier memories at the famous stadium.
