Following England’s win against the Democratic Republic of Congo, attention now shifts to their upcoming match against Mexico. The Three Lions are set to play Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, 5 July at 6pm local time, which will be 1am BST on Monday, 6 July. This fixture, part of the World Cup 2026, will see a significant number of England fans travelling to the Mexican capital as the squad makes it into the final 16.
After playing four matches in the United States, the England team will now move to Mexico for this crucial encounter. The UK government has issued travel advice for supporters, particularly following an incident in Mexico City where people died during celebrations for Mexico’s win against Ecuador. These deaths were attributed to asphyxiation.
Travel advice for supporters
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) recommends that travellers sign up for email alerts regarding travel advice for Mexico. Fans are also encouraged to download the official Fifa World Cup 25 app and check the official World Cup 2026 website for updates that might impact their travel plans in Mexico.
Recent incidents reported include an increase in mobile phone theft and drink spiking during the tournament. Additionally, worker union protests have been occurring in Mexico City since early June, causing traffic disruptions. While these protests have generally been peaceful, some have involved clashes with the police. Foreign nationals are advised that participating in political activities in Mexico is illegal and could lead to detention and deportation. Travellers encountering protests should move away from the area and monitor local media for potential disruptions.
For those planning to venture outside Mexico City, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to certain areas. These include parts of Baja California, Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Jalisco, Colima, Guerrero, and Chiapas.
Logistics and entry requirements
Accommodation in and around Mexico City is expected to be in very high demand, so early planning is advised. Transport around the stadiums will also be very busy. Mexico City’s public transport accepts both cash and contactless payments, but travellers should plan their journeys in advance and allow ample time for travel.
Other cities and popular tourist destinations across Mexico are also anticipated to be busier than usual during the tournament. Before travelling between cities, it is recommended to check the FCDO travel advice for specific routes and be aware of any restricted areas.
For tourists visiting Mexico, a visa is not required. Passports will be stamped with the number of days allowed for stay. The Mexican Embassy in the UK suggests that passports be valid for at least 180 days, as this is the maximum duration for a tourist stay. British nationals entering Mexico by land must complete an immigration form online.
If planning to visit or transit through multiple countries, especially involving land borders, travellers should verify entry requirements for each country. An Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) may be needed to enter the US. If a passport is lost or stolen in Mexico, an Emergency Travel Document from the British Embassy cannot be used to re-enter the USA.
Mexican immigration officers may request proof of accommodation, return flights, visit plans, and sufficient funds for the stay. Those travelling with children may need to provide evidence of their relationship, such as birth or adoption certificates, or parental responsibility orders. To leave Mexico, the passport with the entry stamp must be presented. Losing a passport requires a fee of approximately 700 Mexican pesos (£30) to replace the entry stamp. A departure tax may also be payable when leaving Mexico by air or land, with costs varying and some locations only accepting cash. Most airlines include this in the ticket price, but confirmation with the airline or tour operator is recommended.
The FCDO advises obtaining travel and health insurance before travelling. It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and solutions into Mexico, or to buy and sell them there. Support from the FCDO is available for situations such as hospitalisation, arrest, or passport loss.
Team performance and player concerns
England’s progression to the last 16 was secured by late goals from Harry Kane against the Democratic Republic of Congo, preventing a potential upset. Kane scored twice, helping the team overcome a difficult match. Kane and Jude Bellingham have been key players for England in this World Cup, contributing goals and inspiration. Both players were on target in group stage wins against Croatia and Panama, and were prominent against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Concerns remain regarding the team’s overall performance and selection. Head coach Thomas Tuchel has made various changes to the lineup, particularly in defence and on the flanks. The right-back position has been a particular challenge, with Declan Rice, a central midfielder, playing there against the Democratic Republic of Congo. This move has sparked debate among former players, with Alan Shearer noting that Rice’s move to right-back contributed to the equaliser, while Micah Richards suggested Rice’s energy is too vital in midfield, advocating for Ezri Konsa at right-back instead.
John Stones, who started against Croatia, was left out of the lineup and his experience could be valuable in the upcoming match. Former captain Wayne Rooney expressed concerns about England’s openness in midfield when they lose possession. The team has also faced questions about its creative force, with players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden not included in the squad. Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins, both strikers, have seen limited playing time, with Toney not featuring in any of England’s four games so far, and Watkins playing for only a few minutes against Panama.
Tuchel will be hoping Kane remains fit, especially given the limited use of other attacking options. The match against Mexico on Sunday, 5 July, will be a significant test for England.
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Source: independent.co.uk
As NewsGB's Senior Football Correspondent, Jack Ferndale reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He covered north-east football for a regional daily. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Sunderland and completed an NCTJ diploma. Jack lives in Sunderland, where he watches lower-league football home and away. “The story is in the squad, not just the starting eleven.”
