England's football team received a hostile welcome early this morning as they arrived at their hotel in Mexico City ahead of their World Cup match. The team bus pulled up at 2:15am local time, greeted by boos and jeers from a crowd of locals. As players entered the exclusive hotel, dozens of drinkers at the bar burst into chants of 'Mexico, Mexico, Mexico.'
Players Respond with Smiles and Waves
Despite the rowdy reception, the England players shrugged off the abuse. Jude Bellingham, Reece James, and Jordan Henderson were among those who turned and smiled at the crowd while waving as they walked through the lobby to their rooms. The team had just flown in from Kansas City to Mexico.
Heavy Security Presence
Over 300 police officers were on duty outside the hotel, many equipped with riot shields and heavy weaponry. As darkness fell, officers moved into position and banged their shields on the ground, creating a tense atmosphere. The security measures followed a chaotic 24 hours for the team, which included a kick-off time change that was later reversed.
Mixed Welcome from Supporters
While boos dominated, a handful of England supporters were also present. One fan wore a red replica Michael Owen shirt from the 1998 World Cup. Kevin Evans, 43, originally from London but now living in New Orleans, said: 'It’s been pretty good spirited - they’ve been some boos but nothing nasty at all. Everyone was chatting together … it will be a different over the weekend.'
Concerns Over Fan Disruption
There are fears that Mexico fans may disrupt England players' sleep, as happened during their last match against Ecuador when hundreds of supporters surrounded a different hotel, keeping players awake with chanting and fireworks. Mexico City mayor Clara Brugada urged fans to behave 'responsibly, carefully and with empathy.'
Ticket Scramble and Match Details
England face Mexico at the Azteca stadium for the first time. Tickets are in high demand, with resale prices among the highest in the tournament due to low supply and strong home support. The England Supporters' Travel Club received an allocation of 4,000 tickets for the 80,824-seat stadium.
