England are set to face Mexico in a pivotal Group Stage match of the Global World Cup (GWC) on July 6, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The match kicks off at 8:00 PM local time, with both teams vying for a spot in the knockout rounds.
England's Path to Victory
Gareth Southgate's squad comes into the match after a 2-0 win over Nigeria in their opening game. A victory against Mexico would secure England's progression to the Round of 16 with a game to spare. Southgate is expected to field a strong lineup, with Harry Kane leading the attack. The England captain has scored 12 goals in his last 10 international appearances.
Key midfielder Jude Bellingham, who missed the Nigeria match due to a minor knock, has returned to full training and is likely to start. Defensively, John Stones and Harry Maguire are expected to partner at centre-back, with Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell as full-backs.
Mexico's Home Advantage
Mexico, playing on home soil, will be buoyed by a passionate crowd. They drew 1-1 with Argentina in their opening match, with Hirving Lozano scoring a stunning equalizer. Manager Diego Cocca will rely on the pace of Lozano and Raúl Jiménez to trouble England's defence. Mexico have not lost a competitive match at the Estadio Azteca since 2015.
According to former Mexico international Cuauhtémoc Blanco, "England are a strong side, but we have the support of 90,000 fans. We will fight for every ball."
Head-to-Head Record
England and Mexico have met 12 times previously, with England winning six, Mexico three, and three draws. Their last encounter was a friendly in 2023, which ended 1-1. In World Cup competition, they have faced off twice: Mexico won 1-0 in 1966, and England triumphed 3-0 in 2010.
Team News and Injuries
For England, left-back Luke Shaw remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while midfielder Declan Rice is one yellow card away from a suspension. Mexico will be without defender César Montes due to a red card suspension from the Argentina match. Midfielder Edson Álvarez is fit despite a minor ankle issue.
Match Officials
The referee for the match is Wilton Sampaio from Brazil, assisted by Rodrigo Figueiredo and Marcelo Van Gasse. The fourth official is Raphael Claus.
Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on ITV in the UK and Televisa in Mexico. Kick-off is at 8:00 PM local time (2:00 AM BST on July 7).
