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Azteca Awaits: England's World Cup Dream Faces Its Toughest Test

GARY JORDAN assesses England's biggest challenge of the World Cup so far as Thomas Tuchel wrestles with key selection dilemmas before a daunting last-16 showdown with hosts Mexico. Can the Three Lions finally hit top form when it matters most?

04.07.26, 20:00 Updated 04.07.26, 19:45 7 Minute Read

Gary Jordan

Gary Jordan

The build-up to England’s last-16 match has been largely about events off the field, and although they have been an unhelpful distraction, they have taken away some of the hysteria over Thomas Tuchel's selection problems.

The on/off, early/late debate over the kick-off time is now over. It seems FIFA’s concerns were genuine and more over fan safety, than the weather, and despite the criticism they’ve faced it must be said the decision hasn’t been taken likely. Let’s hope for the next 24 hours the focus is on football, and the match can pass off without major incident.

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Gary Jordan

Gary Jordan Author of Out of the Shadows: The Story of the 1982 World Cup Team. A long-time observer of England, he brings historical perspective and an enduring optimism shaped by decades following the national side.

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