England face Mexico in Azteca fortress, returning to scene of Maradona handball

England's football team is set to take on host nation Mexico in the round of 16 of the World Cup at the legendary Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Sunday. The Three Lions face not only a formidable opponent but also the challenges of high altitude and the ghosts of past traumatic failures on Mexican soil.

England have not played a competitive match at the Azteca since their 1986 quarter-final defeat to Argentina, when Diego Maradona scored the two most famous goals in football history – the first with a hand, dubbed the 'Hand of God', and the second after a stunning solo run.

England's journey to this match has been rocky: a thrilling opening win over Croatia, followed by a draw against Ghana, a hard-fought victory over Panama, and a huge scare against DR Congo in the round of 32.

Manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that the 2,200-metre altitude gives Mexico a significant advantage, as it is impossible to adapt fully in just four days. "It is maybe one of the most beautiful fixtures, the most exciting fixtures that you can have, to play against Mexico in the Azteca," Tuchel said. "There will be a lot of obstacles waiting for us, but we are ready for that."

Mexico, in contrast, have won all four World Cup matches so far without conceding a goal – a feat achieved only by Brazil in 1986 and Italy in 1990. They have an intimidating record at the Azteca, losing just twice in 89 matches there. After their 2-0 win over Ecuador, over a million people took to the streets of Mexico City, and celebrations led to at least four deaths.

As in 1970, when England faced disturbances from local fans, the team fears similar disruption. Tuchel revealed that the team is keeping its hotel location secret and will provide earplugs to players, expecting everything from the passionate Mexican supporters.