Thomas Tuchel has urged parents to allow their children to watch England's next World Cup game against Mexico at 1am BST on Monday morning. The England manager acknowledged the challenge of a late kick-off on a school night but emphasized the unique opportunity presented by the quadrennial tournament.
England's Path to the Last 16
England advanced to the round of 16 after a 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo on Wednesday, with Harry Kane scoring a second-half double. The Three Lions now face a tricky tie against World Cup co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Tuchel's Plea to Parents
Speaking after the DR Congo victory, Tuchel said: 'Let them watch football. There's so much school to go to but the World Cup is every four years. There will be a big, big match on in four days. We need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.' The game could extend until 4am if it goes to extra time and penalties.
Altitude Disadvantage
Tuchel also highlighted the significant challenge posed by the Azteca Stadium's high altitude, approximately 7,200 feet above sea level. The thinner air reduces oxygen intake, affecting player performance. 'The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it,' Tuchel said. 'It just takes too much time. We have only three days in between these matches. It's physically just not possible to adapt to the altitude. That is just a huge advantage that Mexico will have.'
Mexico, who are yet to concede a goal at the World Cup, have played all four of their matches at high altitude—three at the Azteca and one in Guadalajara, which is around 5,000 feet above sea level. Tuchel added: 'More obstacles may come, but we are ready for that. This is just something with which we will have to deal. And I think we showed the attitude that we are ready for that.'
