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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Alex Pattle

Harry Kane warns England face altitude ‘disadvantage’ against Mexico at World Cup clash

  • England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo, meaning they will now face co-hosts Mexico in the last 16 tie – scheduled to take place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, 5 July.
  • The upcoming fixture presents a unique challenge for England, with concerns over the high altitude and humidity in Mexico City, which Harry Kane acknowledged as a significant disadvantage that the team will have to manage.
  • Estadio Azteca’s pitch sits 2,240 metres (7,220ft) above sea level, where the air is much thinner due to the high altitude. This makes it harder for the body to take oxygen into the bloodstream.
  • Kane said: "My understanding is we cannot adapt to the altitude. It's a huge advantage Mexico have. There's not enough time. We knew that before. It's just a disadvantage with which we will have to deal. But we showed the attitude."
  • Former England international Peter Reid, who played at the Stadium at the 1986 World Cup, told BBC Breakfast : “You never really acclimatise... . It's difficult, your breath, it's harder to catch your breath.”

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