Mexico and England are set to face off in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match will take place on July 5 at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.

Mexico topped Group A with a perfect nine points, winning all three group matches and securing their first World Cup knockout victory since 1986. England finished first in Group L with seven points, including a dramatic comeback win over DR Congo.

The Azteca Stadium, situated at 2,240 meters above sea level, poses a challenge for English players due to altitude. Additionally, the passionate Mexican crowd is expected to create a hostile atmosphere.

England manager Thomas Tuchel said: "This will be a proper World Cup match. We are in an iconic place, an iconic stadium." Mexico coach Javier Aguirre commented: "England have major players and are physically powerful."

According to the Opta supercomputer, England has a 40.6% chance of winning in regulation time, while Mexico stands at 31.5%. The probability of extra time and penalties is 27.9%.

The winner will face either Brazil or Norway in the quarterfinals on July 11 in Miami.

This is only the second World Cup meeting between the two sides, with England winning their first encounter 2-0 in 1966. England has also won all four friendly matches between 1986 and 2010.

Source: www.aljazeera.com