England manager Thomas Tuchel believes fate will finally be in his side’s favor when they return to the iconic Azteca Stadium, insisting “it’s karma” as the Three Lions prepare to face co-hosts Mexico in a high-stakes FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash.Forty years ago Diego MaradonaThe infamous “Hand of God” goal that helped Argentina eliminate England at the same venue during the 1986 World Cup, Tuchel said history could be over on Sunday.England will not only face a passionate home crowd but also the daunting challenge of playing at more than 7,300 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level, where Mexico boasts an unbeaten record of 10 World Cup matches across three tournaments.
‘It’s karma’ to return to England in Azteca
Despite acknowledging the huge challenge posed by the altitude, Tuchel struck a confident note when asked about England’s return to one of football’s most historic stadiums.“We’ll get it back. It’s karma,” said Tuchel. “Karma will come back to us. Let’s reverse it.”The German coach admitted that England could do little to prepare physically for the conditions.“My understanding is that we cannot adjust to the altitude. That is a big advantage that Mexico will have,” Tuchel said. “It takes a lot of time.”Sports scientists usually recommend at least two weeks of acclimatization for athletes competing at high altitude, a luxury England did not have after basing themselves in Kansas City after a pre-tournament camp in Florida.However, Tuchel will hope his players can overcome the conditions through tactical discipline and mental fortitude.
Hydration breaks can be decisive
With the altitude expected to test both teams, Tuchel believes hydration breaks will once again be an important tactical tool.England used stoppages effectively in their Round of 32 win over DR Congo, recovering from an early setback to secure a 2-1 win.“I made the most of it,” Tuchel said. “You know I don’t really love them. I enjoy football more when it plays with momentum, but of course they are here and why don’t I try to take advantage?”The Azteca remains one of England’s most painful World Cup venues after Maradona’s unforgettable quarterfinal performance in 1986, when he scored the controversial “Hand of God” goal before scoring one of the greatest solo goals in the tournament’s history.Now, four decades later, England have the chance to make happier memories at the famous stadium.