England manager Thomas Tuchel believes destiny could finally swing in his side’s favour 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 after Diego Maradona’s 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 metres) 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 enormous challenge posed by the altitude, Tuchel struck a confident note when asked about England’s return to one of football’s most historic stadiums.“We will get it back. It’s karma,” Tuchel said. “Karma will come back for us. We will turn it around.”The German coach admitted there is little England can do to prepare physically for the conditions.“My understanding is that we cannot adapt to the altitude. That is just a huge advantage that Mexico will have,” Tuchel said. “It just takes too much time.”Sports scientists generally recommend at least two weeks of acclimatisation for athletes competing at high altitude, a luxury England do not have after basing themselves in Kansas City following a pre-tournament camp in Florida.Instead, Tuchel will hope his players can overcome the conditions through tactical discipline and mental resilience.
Hydration breaks could prove decisive
With altitude expected to test both teams, Tuchel believes hydration breaks could once again become a valuable tactical tool.England used the stoppages effectively during their Round of 32 victory over DR Congo, recovering from an early setback to claim a 2-1 win.“I make the most of it,” Tuchel said. “You know that I don’t really love them. I enjoy football more when it plays out with momentum, but of course they are here and why would I not try to take advantage?”The Azteca remains one of England’s most painful World Cup venues after Maradona’s unforgettable quarterfinal performance in 1986, when he scored the controversial “Hand of God” goal before producing one of the greatest solo goals in tournament history.Now, four decades later, England have an opportunity to create happier memories at the famous stadium.