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Former England striker Stan Collymore has launched a strong criticism of FIFA for permitting World Cup co-hosts Mexico to play at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. Despite this, England midfielder Declan Rice maintains that the team remain completely composed and unfazed by the challenging conditions ahead of their round-of-16 clash.

Host venue sparks debate

The demanding nature of playing at the Estadio Azteca has been one of the main talking points leading up to England’s knockout match against Mexico. Situated 2,241 metres above sea level, the iconic stadium poses serious physical challenges, including quicker fatigue and slower recovery times for players who are not used to such altitude.

Many observers have questioned the fairness of the tournament’s structure, as Mexico have played all their games on home turf. This advantage is evident in their outstanding record of just two defeats in 89 competitive fixtures at the stadium.

Collymore calls for review of host allocations

Speaking to BetGoodwin, the former England forward expressed deep frustration over the way tournament venues were distributed among co-host nations. He urged FIFA to introduce major reforms to ensure fairer hosting arrangements in the future.

Collymore remarked, “It’s wrong that Mexico have been allowed such a big physical advantage. FIFA and Gianni Infantino need to sit down with the other associations and work out a way to make these tournaments fairer.”

He continued, “Take Canada, for instance – they’re a co-host but have had to play across the border in Seattle, while Mexico have basically stayed at the Azteca, where they’ve only lost twice in more than 80 matches.”

“Everyone knows the advantage of playing at altitude is significant. That was common knowledge beforehand, which makes it grossly unfair for one team to enjoy such a physical edge in what is meant to be a level competition.”

“I think the entire hosting system needs re-evaluation. England, home to arguably the strongest domestic league in world football, haven’t hosted a World Cup in the modern television era, yet Mexico have done it three times. So, yes, it’s absolutely wrong for one nation to have such a clear physiological advantage over another.”

Rice keeps focus on the game

Meanwhile, within the England camp, the players have chosen to downplay any concerns about the altitude or atmosphere. Speaking on Lions’ Den, Rice stressed that Thomas Tuchel’s squad are treating the fixture as just another away challenge, regardless of the venue’s legendary status.

Rice stated, “It’s going to feel like an away match for us. They’ve played every game in Mexico so far, always at home, so for us it’s about going there and handling whatever comes our way.”

“We don’t mind where we play. To us, it’s just another ground. Yes, the Azteca is famous, especially for moments like Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’, but we’re just going there to do our job.”

“It’s obviously going to be an incredible experience, but for us, it’s simply another stadium to play in.”

England face their biggest challenge yet

England now prepare for what could be their toughest test of the tournament against a confident Mexican squad that has won all four of its matches so far without conceding a goal. Having played exclusively at lower altitudes until now, the Three Lions must quickly adjust to the thinner air to avoid an early elimination. Managing physical energy levels from the first whistle will be crucial if England hope to disrupt Mexico’s rhythm and book their place in the quarter-finals.