Rashford looking to soak up Mexico atmosphere

Marcus Rashford is full of belief as England prepare to take on Mexico in the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Three Lions face El Tri on Monday 6 July (1am BST kick-off) for a place in the quarter-final at this summer’s tournament.

And Thomas Tuchel and his players travelled to Mexico City yesterday ahead of the match-up.

“I think it’s one strength of the group – we’re ready for whatever challenge is thrown at us,” noted Rashford.

“It’s a game of football, at the end of the day. Whatever happens, however the game plays out, we’re going to try and come out on top.”

And England are going to enjoy the game at Mexico City Stadium – the 87,523-seater venue where the Three Lions last played in 1986 in the quarter-final of the World Cup against eventual champions Argentina.

“We’re looking to soak in everything about this fixture,” he said. “The stadium is amazing and passionate fans from both sides. Hopefully it’s a good game of football and we come out on top.”

And Three Lions forward – who found the back of the net in the opener in Dallas against Croatia – is confident heading into Monday’s game which will be played on Sunday locally.

“We know what we’re capable of with what we’ve got in the squad,” he continued. “If problems get thrown at us, we’re going to find a way to deal with them.

“That’s pretty much the mentality of all of us – the players and staff included. We have full belief and we don’t expect the game to go exactly how we plan but no game does. It’s nothing new to us.”

And although Rashford conceded it will be a tough game against one of the tournament hosts, the Manchester United star is sure Tuchel’s team can get the job done.

“They’ve obviously defended well but no defence is unbeatable,” explained Rashford.

“It’s up to us to find a way. It’s another challenge. We’re going to play against some top players, some top teams, some top defensive units, top forwards. It’s just problems we’re going to have to try and deal with.

“I think the team is confident in themselves. We give 100 percent on the pitch.”