Published Jul 2, 4:30am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jul 2, 4:30am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Jul 6, 11:09am ET
Standout action in the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup is set for July 5, as co-hosts Mexico welcome England to the Azteca Stadium.
It will be England’s first trip to the iconic stadium since the infamous Hand of god goal by Diego Maradona, while Sunday’s clash will also represent the final time that Mexico will have home-field advantage this summer.
For the final time this summer, Mexico will have home-field advantage at the FIFA World Cup. It has been a stunning tournament to this point for Javier Aguirre’s side, as they have won all four of their matches without conceding a goal.
Their record at the Azteca should be respected, maintaining their reliable unbeaten run with a dominant 2-0 success against Ecuador in the round of 32.
Home advantage will be key to their chances against England, as Mexico have won 70 of their last 89 competitive fixtures at their home stadium in Mexico City, losing just twice over the same period. In fact, their last defeat in a competitive matchup at the Azteca was suffered back in 2013.
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Since England’s impressive 4-2 win against Croatia, the Three Lions have been frustrated against teams deploying a low block. However, credit must be given to the team as they have found a way to overcome the challenges that they have faced.
A sign of their character was found in the round of 32 win against DR Congo, with Harry Kane scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to book England’s spot in the round of 16. That was a historic win for England, as it marked the first time since the 1966 final that the Three Lions had come from behind to win a fixture at the World Cup.
Jude Bellingham and Kane are England’s two standout stars, but Thomas Tuchel will need to find the balance, as the Three Lions struggled in the turnovers, with the defensive line looking extremely vulnerable against weaker opposition.
This is a fascinating clash at the World Cup, and Mexico’s excellent record at the Azteca is a notable angle. However, there is likely to be more pressure on the hosts to take the game to England, which could play to the strengths of the Three Lions, who have been forced to play against more defensive opponents in recent matches. An open game will suit the chances of England, and Sunday could be the day that they firmly arrive as a leading contender to win the World Cup.
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Pick
England (+157)
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