World Cup 2026: Why England players won’t fear Mexico or the Azteca – Alan Shearer

I’ve heard a lot of talk about the difficult conditions England will face at the Azteca Stadium, but I don’t think the players will be worried about any of that.

Instead of being afraid of the different tests they face, they will just think ‘succeed’. I know I will be.

When it’s over, all the talking is over anyway, and if they play the game instead of the opportunity, then I think they’ll win.

Yes, it will be difficult due to the altitude, atmosphere and everything else. Co-hosts Mexico are at home and 80% of the audience is fans; which is very different to anything England have faced so far in this tournament.

But as a player, these are the kinds of games and moments that you train for and work hard for your whole life because going to such an iconic stadium and playing in a World Cup in front of millions of television viewers and getting a place in the quarter-finals as a reward is what you dream about as a kid.

I’ve wanted to go to the Azteca ever since I watched the 1986 World Cup on TV as a teenager, and it was the first time England had been back since losing that epic quarter-final tie against Argentina. This will be both a spectacular show and a unique test.

I’ve followed England in the United States this World Cup and we’ve had the majority of fans in all four games so far.

Around 75% of the crowd against DR Congo in Atlanta were supporting England, but this will feel very different and is another reason why this game will be looked forward to.

I’ll be there and commentating alongside Guy Mowbray and I’m just as excited about it as the fans. I’m sure the players are excited too.

Yes, it’s a challenge but I would tell them to embrace it and enjoy it, be positive and show us what you can do.