Thomas Tuchel: England owed 'karma' at Azteca Stadium

England manager Thomas Tuchel believes his team is owed a stroke of luck as they return to the iconic Azteca Stadium to face Mexico in the World Cup round of 16 this Sunday. The venue holds deep historical significance for England, serving as the site of their 1986 quarter-final exit where Diego Maradona scored his notorious 'Hand of God' goal.

Ahead of the knockout clash, Tuchel is determined to rewrite the narrative at the stadium. "It will reward us. We will get it back. It’s karma. Karma will come back for us. We will turn it around," Tuchel stated, adding that it is a significant moment for his squad to make peace with the venue where images of past legends like Gary Lineker and Peter Shilton still resonate.

Beyond the historical weight, England are managing fitness concerns following their narrow 2-1 victory over DR Congo. Declan Rice played through significant pain during the match, though Tuchel remains optimistic about his availability. "I asked him, he said ‘I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain’. When Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it anymore. There is no injury, I think he will recover. It’s more neural pain," the manager explained.

The squad faces a demanding challenge, including adapting to the 2,200-metre altitude and a hostile home crowd. Maximum focus will be required as England aim to secure a quarter-final spot against either Brazil or Norway.