Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jul 5
Mexican Fans Blast Horns Outside England Hotel Before Round-of-16 Match as Tuchel Shrugs Off Sleep Disruption
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jul 5

Mexican Fans Blast Horns Outside England Hotel Before Round-of-16 Match as Tuchel Shrugs Off Sleep Disruption

3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jul 5

Summary

  • Dozens of Mexican supporters stayed outside England’s JW Marriott in Mexico City until early Sunday, using loudspeakers, horns and fireworks to try to keep players awake before the 6 p.m. round-of-16 match.
  • Police blockades did not stop the gathering, which targeted England as Mexico sought another home-edge tactic ahead of the knockout game.
  • Thomas Tuchel said he had expected the disturbance and downplayed its effect, saying England could recover lost sleep later in the morning.
  • The same tactic was used earlier this week before Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador, prompting Ecuador’s federation to file a formal complaint with organizers.
  • The overnight noise follows England’s booed arrival in Mexico City and reflects a long-running Latin American football tradition that has increasingly become a psychological weapon.

Insights

Will the hostile reception in Mexico City forge a siege mentality, fueling an improbable England win?
Can England's sports science conquer Mexico's crushing high-altitude advantage in just two days?
After fan disruptions plagued Ecuador, can FIFA actually ensure a fair fight for England?