Thomas Tuchel has several crucial selection decisions to make for England's last-16 meeting with Mexico at the World Cup. The Three Lions fought back from a goal down to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in Wednesday's round-of-32 clash in Atlanta, setting up a huge showdown with the co-hosts at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Injury Concerns in Defense
England started with Djed Spence at right-back against DR Congo due to injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah. Declan Rice also played there late in the game after Tuchel sent on Eberechi Eze in midfield. Both James and Quansah traveled to Atlanta to support the team and are racing to be fit for the Mexico match.
Chelsea captain James also missed the final Group L fixture against Panama with a hamstring injury, while Quansah limped off in that game with an ankle problem. Tuchel would prefer to start James at right-back if fit, with Quansah as his second choice. If neither is available, he will likely choose between Spence and centre-back Ezri Konsa, who has played on the right for England before.
Defensive Shuffle
Konsa has started every game at this World Cup for England at centre-back, so moving him to right-back would require a new partner for Marc Guehi, almost certainly John Stones. Fellow centre-back Trevoh Chalobah, called up after Tino Livramento's pre-tournament injury, can also play at right-back if needed.
Tuchel also has the option of starting Rice at right-back and finding a new midfield partner for Elliot Anderson. Jude Bellingham dropped into a deeper role against Panama when Rice was rested due to a calf issue and suspension risk. Kobbie Mainoo and Jordan Henderson are other midfield options in the squad.
Attacking Changes
Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford were disappointing in starting wide roles against DR Congo, while substitutes Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon made an impact off the bench. Gordon assisted both of Harry Kane's late goals. Both Saka and Gordon could now start against Mexico, with captain Kane leading the line after his latest heroics that saw him move past Pele on the list of all-time top World Cup finals scorers.
Jordan Pickford will remain in goal but will look to improve after being beaten too easily at his near post for Brian Cipenga's early goal for DR Congo. Nico O'Reilly is set to continue at left-back.
Predicted Lineup and Match Details
Predicted England XI vs Mexico (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane. Doubts: James, Quansah.
Time and date: 1am BST on Monday July 6, 2026. Venue: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City. How to watch: BBC One.
