England face Mexico as Brazil meet Norway

Mexico City: (Sports Desk) – England will take on Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Sunday as the World Cup round of 16 continues, while Brazil face Norway in another high-profile contest for a place in the quarter-finals.

Two quarter-final berths are available after France and Morocco booked their spots in the last eight. England and Mexico will meet in Mexico City, while Brazil and Norway will play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

England have reached the knockout stage after a difficult campaign. Captain Harry Kane scored twice late in the match to help Thomas Tuchel’s side beat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 and secure a place in the last 16.

The Three Lions are hoping to end a 60-year wait for a major international trophy, but their performances so far have raised concerns. England struggled in the group stage and their defence has looked vulnerable, particularly on the right side.

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England will also have to deal with the high altitude in Mexico City, where the Estadio Azteca is located more than 2,200 metres above sea level. Tuchel admitted that his players would not have enough time to fully adjust to the conditions.

Mexico enter the match in strong form, having won all four of their home matches without conceding a goal. Their 2-0 victory over Ecuador gave them their first World Cup knockout win in four decades, and they will now aim to defeat England in front of their home supporters.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said his side would need a near-perfect performance against England, but insisted the match would ultimately be decided by the players on the pitch rather than the altitude.

The winner of England versus Mexico will play Brazil or Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami. Brazil are favourites against Norway, but they face the threat of Erling Haaland, who has scored five goals in three matches during the tournament.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said his defenders are familiar with Haaland’s style, with Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos having faced the Manchester City striker in club football. Norway coach Stale Solbakken said his players must focus on their performance and not be overawed by the occasion.