England’s tactical approach for Mexico
England face a significant challenge against Mexico in the World Cup last 16, particularly due to the high altitude of Mexico City‘s Azteca Stadium, which stands at over 7,000ft (2,200m) above sea level. Head coach Thomas Tuchel has indicated that this tournament would be defined by suffering, and the team’s preparation for the heat in the US will now be tested in new territory. Mexico, having performed strongly in their last-32 tie against Ecuador, are considered formidable at the Azteca, where they have lost only twice in 89 competitive matches.
To counter Mexico‘s strengths, particularly their pace on the flanks, England may need to adopt a cautious strategy. The suggestion is to employ a low block tactic to stifle Mexico and prevent the game from becoming chaotic. This approach would involve slowing down the game, taking time over throw-ins, and focusing on being compact and controlled. The aim is to silence the passionate home crowd and make Mexico feel the pressure, rather than allowing the game to become an emotional contest.
Concerns have been raised about England‘s readiness for a high-intensity battle, especially with Declan Rice not at full speed in midfield and issues on the right side of defence. The team’s pressing was reportedly disorganised during the early stages of their last-32 match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While Tuchel has expressed a desire for England to play like a Premier League side, the upcoming match may necessitate a more defensive, counter-attacking style.
Lessons from past World Cups and squad considerations
Historical encounters in Mexico have not been favourable for England. Their 1970 World Cup defence ended in León with a loss to West Germany, and the 1986 World Cup saw them exit at the quarter-final stage against Diego Maradona at the Azteca. A pre-1986 World Cup tournament in Mexico in 1985 highlighted the difficulties of playing at altitude, with players like Glenn Hoddle experiencing breathlessness. England initially struggled to adapt their style, but a shift to a more conservative approach in later games, including a 3-0 win against Poland, proved effective.
For the upcoming match, Tuchel has several tactical options to consider. Moving Ezri Konsa to right-back and bringing in the experienced John Stones in central defence has been suggested. This would provide a better balance for the team, especially given that Konsa and Marc Guehi were reportedly out of position for a goal conceded against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Stones‘ experience could be vital in the challenging atmosphere of the Azteca.
The role of Declan Rice is also a point of discussion; while he played at right-back against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, his energy in central midfield is considered crucial, particularly at altitude. Alan Shearer noted that playing Rice at right-back contributed to the equaliser in that match, but Micah Richards argued against it, emphasising Rice‘s importance in midfield.
The team’s reliance on Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham for goals and inspiration has been evident throughout the tournament, with both players scoring in group stage wins against Croatia and Panama, and being key figures against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, there is a need for other players to contribute more consistently. Anthony Gordon made an impact off the bench against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but players like Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke had a frustrating day. Bukayo Saka is also being managed due to an Achilles problem.
Concerns about the squad’s creative force have been raised, with the exclusion of natural creators like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden from the World Cup squad being noted. Despite their reported poor club seasons, the team has shown a lack of creative spark, particularly in the goalless draw against Ghana. The forward options beyond Kane, specifically Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney, have seen limited game time, with Toney yet to play in the World Cup and Watkins receiving only six minutes against Panama. Kane has scored 72 goals for club and country this season.
If England can manage the initial stages of the match without conceding, their individual quality, particularly from players like Kane, could make a difference against Mexico‘s striker Raúl Jiménez. The tactical approach will need to be pragmatic, focusing on set pieces and counter-attacks, with Kane‘s through balls potentially releasing players like Anthony Gordon on the break. The option of using Morgan Rogers as an extra block in midfield by removing a winger is also being considered.
The match against Mexico will be played at the Azteca Stadium.
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Source: theguardian.com
