Altitude expert explains exactly why England 'will suffer' against Mexico

England are set to play Mexico in the World Cup round of 16, and to progress, they will not just have to overcome their opponents in their home stadium but also the effect of altitude.

Javier Aguirre’s team have proven to be a strong side at this World Cup, having won every game so far, as they finished top of their group before knocking Ecuador out at the round of 32.

The Three Lions will be aware of the challenge that faces them, as they must beat their opponents at a stadium, the Azteca Stadium, in which they have lost only twice since it opened in 1966.

While there can be many factors that mean that it is difficult to beat a side on their home pitch, Mexico are one of the few nations in the world that have altitude impacting opposition that faces them at the Azteca Stadium.

Thomas Tuchel pointed out how difficult it would be for his squad to adapt in such a short space of time to altitude, and now an expert has explained to Sky News how it will impact the players in this World Cup clash.

Mexico

They said: “I think they will suffer. The muscles need oxygen, so the uptake of oxygen decreases by about 10 or 15%.

“They cannot sprint more than usual, or maybe in the second half they decrease their performance.”

England’s ability to adapt to altitude has not been the only talking point ahead of this World Cup clash with Mexico, as the weather has now become a hot topic.

In the build-up to the match, there was uncertainty as to when it would kick off, with speculation that it would be brought forward six hours; however, at present it is still expected to begin at 1am British Standard Time.

There are still concerns the match could be delayed due to the weather, with several potential times that the clash could begin.