England's last-16 opponents Mexico: What to expect

England will face Mexico in the round of 16 of the World Cup on Monday, July 6. The co-hosts have impressed so far, winning their first three group games against South Africa, South Korea and Czech Republic, then defeating Ecuador 2-0 in the round of 32. Here is a detailed look at Javier Aguirre's side.

Team profile and style of play

Mexico were quarter-finalists on the two previous occasions they hosted the World Cup (1970 and 1986) and are now one win away from repeating that feat. However, this is not considered a vintage Mexican squad. Relatively few players are based in Europe's top five leagues, and the team's biggest name, Raul Jimenez, is in the twilight of his career at age 35.

Before the tournament, there was negativity around El Tri's style of play, with some fans booing during goalless draws against Uruguay and Portugal. But the atmosphere during the World Cup has been partisan. Coach Javier Aguirre said the support has been "a driving force" behind their run of four straight wins without conceding a goal.

Aguirre typically prioritizes defensive pragmatism. He often fields a narrow front three, with full-backs providing width in attack. The team works tirelessly to regain possession quickly and has shown defensive solidity, underlined by draws with Portugal and Belgium in March and a clean sheet record at this tournament.

Strengths and weaknesses

Mexico benefit from home advantage, additional recovery time, and playing at altitude, where thinner air can sap opponents' energy. Central defenders Johan Vasquez and Cesar Montes complement each other effectively, making Mexico difficult to break down.

Despite scoring eight goals at this World Cup, Mexico have often struggled for attacking fluency under Aguirre. If England can cut off passing lanes and disrupt their usual patterns, Mexico may lack ideas going forward.

Key players to watch

Gilberto Mora – The 17-year-old Tijuana midfielder is the youngest player in Mexico's World Cup history and the youngest from any nation to start a knockout game since Brazil's Pelé in 1958. He is seen as a potential talisman.

Raul Jimenez – The 35-year-old striker, who has agreed to return to Wolves from Fulham, usually delivers when needed. He equalized in last year's Gold Cup final against the United States (2-1 win) and has scored two goals at this World Cup after failing to score at the previous three.

Cesar Montes – At 6ft 3in, the 29-year-old centre-back is a dominant presence in both boxes. He scored three times at last year's Gold Cup and joined Lokomotiv Moscow in 2024 after an unsuccessful stint in Spain.

Coach and staff

Javier Aguirre, 67, is in his third spell as Mexico coach. A former midfielder who played for Mexico at the 1986 World Cup, he also led them to the last 16 in 2002 and 2010. He has restored competitiveness and team harmony, though not all fans enjoy his pragmatic style. Assistant Rafa Marquez, the only man to captain a country at five World Cups, will succeed him after the tournament.

Match details

Mexico v England will be played on Monday, July 6, at 01:00 BST. It will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer, with radio coverage on 5 Live and BBC Sounds, plus live text on the BBC Sport website and app.

Fun fact: Mexico City is sinking by up to 40 cm per year.