England faces Mexico in World Cup last‑16 amid right‑back injury crisis

England travel to the Estadio Azteca for a round‑of‑16 World Cup clash with co‑hosts Mexico. Manager Thomas Tuchel entered the match with a depleted defensive line‑up. Right‑back Reece James remains doubtful after a hamstring strain that kept him out of the final training session, and the coach said he may only be a bench option pending a medical assessment. Jarell Quansah, who missed the DR Congo win with an ankle injury, has completed full training and is fully available.

Defender Djed Spence, who started at right‑back against DR Congo, is also a concern – reports describe a muscular niggle and a recent protective face mask he must wear after a broken jaw suffered in May. With Livramento, James, Quansah and Spence all affected, Tuchel may resort to using centre‑back Ezri Konsa at right‑back or deploy Declan Rice out of position, though Rice has been cleared to start in midfield. Tuchel highlighted the altitude of Mexico City and warned the first 15‑20 minutes would be physically demanding, but expects a respectful atmosphere from the home fans. Mexico enter the game unbeaten and with a strong record at the Azteca, making the defensive choices crucial for England’s quarter‑final hopes.