FIFA is looking into Mexico as England gets ready for a similar situation ahead of their World Cup match.
FIFA has been asked to start an investigation into Mexico ahead of England’s upcoming World Cup match. England secured their spot in the last 16 with a 2-1 win over DR Congo, thanks to Harry Kane, who scored twice in the second half to turn the game around.
The Three Lions have been getting ready to face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, but the lead-up has been full of drama. There were reports that the kick-off time might be changed by six hours due to weather concerns, with both teams worried about the shift. However, FIFA later confirmed the game will start as planned at 6pm local time (1am UK time). The soon-to-leave Prime Minister Kier Starmer even announced that pubs can stay open until 5am for fans.
The fuss isn’t just about the kick-off time or bad weather, though. Mexico’s fans created a tense atmosphere during their 2-0 win over Ecuador, with some chants possibly breaking FIFA rules. Plus, Ecuador had a tough time before and during the match. Their flight was delayed for several hours, and at their hotel, locals caused disruptions with loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles. Ecuadorian reporters were even attacked during the game, which led Ecuador to officially ask FIFA to investigate Mexico’s behavior.
“The Federation filed a formal complaint with FIFA, asking for a detailed look into what happened before and during the match, including anything that might have put players and fans at risk,” Ecuador’s statement said. “This is the right way to clear up any concerns about a game of this importance.”
England already face a challenge playing at a stadium 7,000 feet above sea level. If Ecuador’s experience shows anything, fans traveling to and from the match may need to be cautious. Mexico hasn’t made it to the quarter-finals since the 1986 World Cup and will be eager to upset England, which could make the stadium area quite intense.
It’s worth noting Mexico has lost just two of their 89 competitive games at the Azteca since 1966, though many of their opponents were ranked lower in FIFA’s standings. One thing is certain: the Three Lions will need to play better than they did against DR Congo if they want to reach their third straight World Cup quarter-final.