England’s preparations for one of their biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been disrupted after hundreds of Mexico supporters gathered outside the team’s hotel in Mexico City in an attempt to keep the players awake before tonight’s last-16 clash.
Supporters carrying drums, trumpets, megaphones and air horns assembled near England’s heavily guarded hotel, while fireworks lit up the night sky as fans chanted in support of the host nation.
Footage circulating online showed groups celebrating on nearby bridges and roads, with some openly admitting they hoped the noise would disturb the England squad before the match.
The Football Association had attempted to keep the team’s accommodation secret after similar tactics were reportedly used against Ecuador before Mexico’s previous knockout match. However, England’s location was eventually identified and large crowds gathered outside despite a major security operation.
Reports from Mexico City indicate that more than 100 riot police officers were deployed around the hotel, with roads closed and barriers erected to keep supporters away from the building itself. Armed officers maintained a visible presence throughout the evening as authorities sought to prevent any serious disorder.
England are staying in the Santa Fe district of Mexico City, where security has been significantly increased ahead of the match.
The Three Lions arrived in the Mexican capital on Friday and have been training at the famous Pumas UNAM Cantera complex as they adapt to the city’s challenging conditions. Mexico City sits around 2,240 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest venues being used during the tournament. Players and coaches have acknowledged that the altitude can affect breathing, recovery and stamina, particularly during the opening stages of matches.
England manager Thomas Tuchel described the occasion as an “iconic match” and said his side were determined to create their own history at one of football’s most famous stadiums.
Tonight’s encounter takes place at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm local time on Sunday, which is 1am BST on Monday morning for supporters watching in the UK.
The match is expected to be played in front of a passionate home crowd, with authorities planning one of the largest security operations ever seen for an England fixture. Reports suggest around 7,500 police officers will be deployed around the stadium and surrounding areas, with supporters advised to arrive several hours before kick-off.
Mexico enter the contest unbeaten in the tournament and backed by a fervent home support, while England will hope that a noisy night outside their hotel has not affected their chances of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals.
