Mexican football legend Jared Borgetti believes that his country has the mental and physical advantage ahead of the World Cup round-of-16 clash between Mexico and England.
Former Bolton Wanderers striker Borgetti is the third all-time Mexican record goal-scorer with 46 goals in 89 appearances – and he discussed the conditions and intimidating atmosphere that await Thomas Tuchel’s team in the early hours of Monday morning (kick-off 1am UK time).
During an exclusive chat with 10bet, Borgetti also delved into how difficult it is for teams to come and play at altitude at the Estadio Azteca, where Mexico have a brilliant home record.
Difficult task
He said: “How difficult is it for national teams to come and play at high altitude when they aren’t used to it?
“Obviously, it makes things complicated, and adapting to that altitude can be tough; a lot of it is also mental.
“Nowadays, physical conditioning helps a great deal in overcoming that, but I think the mental aspect plays a huge role – knowing you’re going to be gasping for air because of the elevation.
“It’s really a combination of the two: the physical impact is proven, but it affects you even more when you let the mental side take over and become obsessed with it.
“Playing at the Azteca is difficult for any opponent, not just because of the conditions, but because of the feverish Mexican fans, who, for me, are the best in the world.
“There is a reason why our record at the Azteca is so good (played 10 World Cup games, winning seven and drawing three / only losing twice in 89 games). It’s our fortress.”
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Start with intensity
Tuchel’s Three Lions have got off to sluggish starts so far in World Cup 2026 – and Mexico will be aiming to be on the front foot from the first whistle.
But Borgetti added: “It’s hard to say how Mexico will start the match, it’s up to the coach to decide, but from my perspective, I do think they should start with intensity.
“I want to see Mexico capitalising on the home crowd’s momentum and energy and of course the altitude.
“I want to see Mexico force England into a gruelling pace right from the start.
“Given the physical demands and the high altitude, that could help Mexico take control of the match.
“Mexico is also at a mental advantage – we’re used to these conditions.
“For England, it’s something that they will be constantly thinking about and discussing as a team.
“Sometimes it can feel like the opponent has already lost before the game starts when you’re talking about the Azteca.”
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Balance the key factor
England have been indebted to Real Madrid playmaker Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane so far, and Borgetti knows Mexico will try to blunt the duo’s threat.
He said: “In any match, there is always a risk of conceding a goal, and as the tournament progresses, it is only natural to face stronger teams.
“However, the priority isn’t necessarily keeping a clean sheet, but rather Mexico scoring goals – that is what we’re looking to do against England.
“Shutting out England with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham would be excellent, but I believe balance is the most important factor, and Mexico has maintained that so far, which has helped them secure four victories without conceding a goal.”
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Michael Davey