Thomas Tuchel has declared that England are due some World Cup 'karma' when they face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca this weekend. The England manager referenced Argentina legend Diego Maradona's notorious Hand of God goal that knocked England out of the 1986 World Cup at the same venue, vowing that fortune will finally turn in England's favour.
Tuchel recalls Maradona's Hand of God
Tuchel, who was 12 years old during the 1986 tournament, said the moment of cheating is firmly lodged in his memory. 'Not only as English people. Even me. I didn't have a connection to it but it means something,' he said. 'Yes, it will reward us. We will get it back. It's karma. Karma will come back for us. We will turn it around.'
Maradona punched the ball past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton in the quarter-final, a goal that stood despite protests and remains one of the most controversial moments in World Cup history. Tuchel noted: 'I remember of course the World Cup of Maradona. Two goals against England. One that was dribbling and one that would never stand these days.'
England's historic struggles at the Azteca
Mexico have played 89 competitive fixtures at the Azteca Stadium, winning 70, drawing 17 and suffering just two defeats — both this century, against Costa Rica in 2001 and Honduras in 2013. The venue is known for its intimidating atmosphere, with Mexican supporters vastly outnumbering travelling fans. Tuchel acknowledged the challenge: 'We will expect that. But what can we do? Maybe we will bring ear plugs. I expect everything.'
Tuchel also revealed his deep appreciation for World Cup history, noting that images of the tournament are displayed at England's training base. 'I just love football and the old tournaments. These pictures from Mexico they are in St George's Park where we stay. These big framed pictures from Gary Lineker scoring in I think Guadalajara and of course of the coaches and Peter Shilton. Big pieces of history. This is a big moment to make peace with the stadium and turn things around.'
