Tuchel on the away game against Mexico: High altitude is a huge disadvantage

With the World Cup Round of 16 about to begin, England will travel to the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, at an altitude of approximately 2,240 meters, to face the host nation, Mexico.

Because FIFA regulations require teams to train on-site the day before a match, the England team was unable to adopt the scientific high-altitude acclimatization plan that required them to arrive at the maximum altitude on the day of the match, which led manager Thomas Tuchel to publicly express his dissatisfaction.

When discussing the negative impact of the schedule and altitude on the team, Tuchel bluntly stated in an interview: "The scientific advice is either to acclimatize 10 days in advance or to arrive at the last minute, but the latter is prohibited by FIFA."

"We have to find a compromise between the two, which will still be a disadvantage. Is that fair? Yes, it's a huge advantage for Mexico."

Besides the objective circumstances, the hamstring nerve pain suffered by key midfielder Declan Rice has also been a major concern for fans. Tuchel revealed his conversation with Rice: "I asked Declan how he was feeling, and he said he could continue for the team, but he was in excruciating pain."

“When Declan tells you he’s in excruciating pain, you know he’s about to reach his limit. He said afterwards that he wasn’t injured, and I think he can keep going, one game after another.”

Furthermore, regarding the possibility of interference from Mexican fans setting off fireworks outside hotels, Tuchel helplessly stated, "We anticipated this, but what can we do? Yes, we will bring earplugs and other methods; I am prepared for anything."

Image source: Internet