Thomas Tuchel has declared that England are prepared for every 'trick' as they face joint hosts Mexico in the World Cup last-16, insisting his side can achieve one of the great results on foreign soil. The Three Lions boss acknowledged the challenges of the altitude, the hostile atmosphere at the Azteca Stadium, and potential logistical disruptions, but expressed confidence in his team's ability to cope.
Tuchel: 'I expect the worst'
Speaking to ITV, Tuchel said: 'I expect the worst, I'm prepared for the worst and let's see. Let's see what happens in traffic and the noise outside the stadium and how long we have to go through passport control. Whatever tricks they have up their sleeves, I expect the worst and I expect every trick. Just smile and focus on what we can influence and we'll be fine.'
The England manager highlighted his players' experience in hostile environments, stating: 'We have players who are up for these situations. We have players who have played in hostile environments. Once we are in the stadium we are good.'
Altitude and history
Tuchel addressed the altitude factor, noting: 'The altitude is a disadvantage but it is what it is. They are fully adapted. My expectation is we will suffer in the first 10 or 20 minutes and once we get through that we will be fine.' He also referenced the infamous 'Hand of God' goal by Diego Maradona at the Azteca in 1986, saying: 'We will make peace with the stadium - now that's the plan! It was a very iconic goal against England but it was a clear handball. You have every right to be bitter but it doesn't help to stay bitter. We are not out for revenge but we just want to make peace with the stadium.'
Team news and tactical adjustments
Tuchel confirmed that Declan Rice will play in midfield rather than at right back, and hinted at returning players: 'We will get some players back,' with Reece James and Jarell Quansah hoping to return soon. He also stressed the need for improvement: 'We create a lot of chances, we don't concede a lot and we have to pick our moments of pressing smarter. We have to take better care of the distances between the lines. The players are aware of it, we are aware of it which is good.'
Belief in a historic victory
When asked if this could be one of England's great victories on foreign soil, Tuchel responded: 'Yeah, it could be and we are going for that. I felt this before the tournament that if we reach the point where Mexico comes then this can really be the moment. After the game you feel it, yeah we are on our way. Yeah, we are getting there, we are getting to where it will be more 50-50 matches now. Everyone feels it because it levels the playing field now. We have the quality, we have the belief, we have the team spirit and we have the glue to make it special and we will write the next chapter.'
Tuchel concluded by expressing his connection with the squad: 'I feel very connected to everyone, I have to say. The last five weeks has made everyone so close and I'm all in!'
