England manager Thomas Tuchel believes fate could finally swing in his side’s favor when they return to the iconic Azteca Stadium, insisting “it’s karma” as the Three Lions prepare to face co-hosts Mexico in a FIFA World Cup last 16 clash.Forty years later Diego MaradonaThe infamous “Hand of God” goal helped Argentina eliminate England at the same venue during the 1986 World Cup, Tuchel says history could come full circle on Sunday.England will not only face a passionate home crowd, but also the daunting challenge of playing more than 7,300 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level, where Mexico boast an unbeaten record in 10 World Cup matches across three tournaments.
Despite acknowledging the enormous challenge posed by the altitude, Tuchel struck a confident note when asked about England’s return to one of football’s most historic stadiums.Sports scientists generally recommend at least two weeks of acclimatization for athletes competing at high altitude, a luxury that England will not have after being based in Kansas City after a pre-tournament camp in Florida.
“I make the most of it,” Tuchel said. “You know I don’t really love him. I like football more when he plays with momentum, but of course I’m here and why don’t I try to take advantage?”The Azteca remains one of England’s World Cup sore spots after Maradona’s unforgettable quarter-final performance in 1986, when he scored the controversial ‘Hand of God’ goal before producing one of the greatest solo goals in the tournament’s history.