FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico coach says team will make "world class" Harry Kane feel uncomfortable on pitch during R16 clash
Mexico City, July 5
Ahead of his side's FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against England at the iconic Azteca Stadium, Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre expressed his admiration for England skipper Harry Kane's "world-class" gameplay, while also asserting that the team will make sure that "he is not comfortable on the pitch".
The England skipper, who has scored five goals so far in the season, is one of the biggest contenders for the Golden Boot currently held by Lionel Messi (seven goals). However, with the high altitude at the Azteca and Mexico's fantastic home record, he faces a tough challenge ahead for a slot in the quarterfinals.
Speaking during the presser as quoted by Reuters, he said on the English skipper, "Harry Kane is a world-class figure. The goals he scored at Tottenham (Hotspur), the goals he scores at Bayern (Munich), and the goals he scores for his national team are those of a top, top player in the world."
"We will try to make sure he is not comfortable on the pitch when he drops to receive, that there is always someone on him so he cannot create play," he added.
He also said that the England team is a "powerful" one physically and plays good football.
Aguirre said that the team's run so far, which has seen them not concede a goal at all, has been shaped by players who leave their ego aside and stay humble.
"We chose players who did not prioritise their individual talent but instead put it at the service of the team; players who left their egos aside and were humble," Aguirre said.
The Mexico coach said that mentality would be crucial against an England side led by striker Harry Kane, whom he described as powerful and technically capable."
On the other hand, Mexico will lean on the experience and star power of Raul Jimenez, who has been a Premier League staple with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham and knows a lot of players on the opponents' camp well.
Aguirre said on Jiminez, "He is one of the group; he helps like one of the group, he behaves like one of the group. He has no attitude of being a star."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see Aguirre praising Kane while also promising to make him uncomfortable. That's the kind of honest coaching we need more of, rather than just bland press conference statements.
Respect to Aguirre for keeping his team humble. The way Mexico has played without conceding a goal so far is incredible. Kane might be a superstar, but teamwork beats individual brilliance any day. 🇮🇳⚽️
Honestly, I think England fans should be a bit worried. Mexico's defense has been rock solid, and the Azteca is a fortress. Kane might struggle to find space with that "always someone on him" strategy.
Great to see Raul Jimenez being so humble despite his Premier League experience. That's the kind of attitude teams need. Also, Kane vs Jimenez - two class strikers but very different styles. Exciting match on the cards! 🙌
Aguirre's comments are respectful but also show a clear game plan. He's not underestimating England or Kane, but he's confident in his team's approach. This is what World Cup football is all about - strategy and pride.
One thing I find odd - why are they talking so much about altitude? England players are used to different conditions. Plus, Kane has played
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