FIFA has granted England permission to establish roadblocks around the team hotel's perimeter ahead of their World Cup last 16 clash with Mexico at the Azteca on Sunday. The measure comes after Mexico fans disrupted Ecuador's sleep before their round-of-32 match, leading to a complaint from the Ecuadorian Football Federation.
Fan tactics raise concerns
Despite the Football Association's efforts to keep the team's location secret, it is widely expected that Mexico supporters will attempt to disrupt Thomas Tuchel's squad with fireworks, chants, and revving engines. Similar tactics were used against Ecuador, who lost 2-0 to Mexico the following day. The Ecuadorian federation has since lodged a formal complaint with FIFA.
Tuchel acknowledged the threat, stating: "We will expect that of course, but what shall we do? We will bring stuff [like ear plugs] of course, but I expect everything."
Logistical challenges for England
England and the FA face a logistical nightmare. They would have preferred a late arrival to mitigate altitude effects and avoid disruption, but FIFA rules require teams to arrive in the host city within 24 hours of kick-off. Kick-off is set for 8pm local time on Sunday.
Tuchel explained: "The recommendation is you either go ten days before – which is too long for us – or last minute, which is not allowed. We will go one night earlier. It makes sense."
FIFA's case-by-case decision
FIFA sources told The Athletic that decisions on roadblocks are made case-by-case, with the high-profile last 16 match warranting this measure. Mexico has lost only twice at the Azteca in 60 years, making the venue a formidable challenge for England.
