FIFA World Cup 2026: England receive hostile welcome at Mexico city hotel ahead of WC Round of 16 clash
Mexico City, July 4
England received a hostile welcome upon arriving at their Mexico City hotel ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against hosts Mexico.
The Three Lions had hoped to keep their hotel location undisclosed after Mexico supporters used loudspeakers, horns and motorcycles to disrupt Ecuador's sleep before their Round of 32 encounter earlier this week. Mexico went on to secure a 2-0 victory on Wednesday, as per Sky Sports.
However, as England's team coach pulled up outside the hotel, hundreds of fans had already gathered. Many booed the visitors while others chanted "Mexico" in a noisy reception. At least one supporter in the crowd was seen holding up an England shirt.
Security outside the hotel has been strengthened following the disturbances earlier in the tournament, which prompted complaints from the Ecuadorian Football Federation.
Authorities have also tightened security across Mexico City after four people were killed during celebrations following Mexico's victory over Ecuador.
The high-octane FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 clash between England and Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico will kick off on Monday at 1 am UK time, as originally scheduled, after the emergence of reports of a change in timings due to bad weather, as reported by Sky Sports.
Thunderstorms and bad weather are forecasted to affect the match at Mexico's fortress around the time of kick-off. Due to this, reports emerged that FIFA were considering a change in game timings by moving it forward by six hours, and discussions about it were underway with the English and Mexican FAs.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Can't believe they're using loudspeakers to disrupt sleep - that's unsportsmanlike if true. But then again, FIFA should have better scheduling to avoid such issues. India has seen similar crowd tactics during some ISL games, but we must draw a line somewhere. Security tightening after deaths is absolutely necessary though - let's hope there are no more incidents.
England should've kept their hotel location secret - amateur mistake from a top team! Ecuador learned this the hard way and paid for it. The Mexican fans are world-class but they cross the line with sleep disruption and violence. Bad weather might actually help England if they adapt better in slippery conditions. Should be a cracking match! ⚽️
Imagine the chaos if India ever hosts a World Cup - our fans would give Mexico a run for their money in noise levels! 😂 But seriously, respecting opponents and their rest is basic sportsmanship. That said, I hope the England fan who held up the shirt was okay - showing support in a hostile crowd takes guts. The Azteca atmosphere will be electric!
Violence and deaths during celebrations is absolutely tragic - football should bring people together, not tear them apart. FIFA needs to take stronger action against fan misbehavior. As for the timing change due to weather, it's sensible to prioritize player safety. England has a strong squad but Mexico's home support is legendary. Can't wait for kick-off!
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