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England face a daunting trip to the Azteca Stadium to face World Cup co-hosts Mexico in the round of 16 on Sunday night.
Predicted thunderstorms and flooding has seen reports emerge that kick off could be brought forward six hours, while how the Three Lions will cope with the high altitude has also been a talking point.
Another has been Mexico's incredible record at the Azteca, where they have lost just twice in competitive fixtures (W70, D17), so England know how big the task at hand is.
Read our prediction, preview and betting tips for the game below, and make sure to check out our today's betting tips page for more of our expert predictions, as well as which platforms offer the best world cup welcome bonuses.
Mexico vs. England key stats
- Mexico have never lost a World Cup game in Mexico City (W8, D2).
- England are unbeaten in six matches in all competitions (W5, D1).
- England have won the previous four H2Hs, including in the 1966 World Cup on the way to winning it.
Mexico vs. England preview: Three Lions to overcome tough conditions?
| Mexico | vs | England |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | FIFA Ranking | 4 |
| Guillermo Ochoa (153) | Most Caps | Harry Kane (118) |
| Raul Jimenez (47) | Most Goals | Harry Kane (84) |
| 1279 | Total Caps | 900 |
| 125 | Total Goals | 157 |
| 0 | Uncapped Players | 0 |
Mexico have enjoyed a brilliant World Cup so far, winning all four games without conceding.
At the Azteca, they will feel like they can beat anyone, although England will provide their toughest test yet.
Indeed, El Tri have lost the previous four H2Hs to the Three Lions, and are ranked 10 places below them in the FIFA rankings.
Still, Javier Aguirre's side will be difficult to beat, and will look to go full strength against an England side not used to the weather conditions.
It could prove to be a major stumbling block for Thomas Tuchel's team, who had to come from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 late on in the round of 32.
England's performances have not been entirely convincing, and they also have some fitness concerns in the squad, notably with Declan Rice.
Still, the Three Lions will back their quality to get through what is set to be a tough game, especially considering their form over the last six matches (W5, D1).
England beat Mexico on the way to winning the World Cup in 1966, and will be dreaming of a repeat 60 years later.
Mexico vs. England form guide & betting tips
| Mexico | vs | England |
|---|---|---|
WWWWW |
Form | WWDWW |
| 13 | Goals For | 11 |
| 1 | Goals Against | 3 |
WWW |
World Cup 2026 | DWW |
Whispers predicts: Mexico 1-1 England (England to win after extra-time/penalties)
England are 31/20 (2.55) favourites to win, but given Mexico's exceptional home record and the conditions the Three Lions face, we fancy the hosts to at least force extra-time.
Thus, we are backing the Draw at 23/10 (3.30) after normal time.
Under 2.5 goals at 3/5 (1.60) seems almost certain to come through given both teams' strong defensive records, having conceded just three goals between them at the World Cup so far.
In tight matches like this, a world-class star like Harry Kane could make the difference after his brace against DR Congo handed England victory.
Kane to score anytime at 13/8 (2.63) is therefore our final pick, while our 1-1 prediction after normal time can be backed at 6/1 (7.00).
> Under 2.5 goals at 3/5 (1.60) | Likelihood: Probable
> Kane to score anytime at 13/8 (2.63) | Likelihood: Possible
> Draw at 23/10 (3.30) | Likelihood: Outsider