Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has played down a major advantage that Mexico hold as England prepare to take them on at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Mexico boost
Rashford and his England teammates narrowly booked their spot in the last 16 of the World Cup by coming from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1.
The Carrington academy graduate started the game and didn’t have the best of displays, eventually being substituted for new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon. England required a second-half display of heroics from Harry Kane to overturn the deficit and dash the hopes of the Congolese.
England now face the difficult task of taking on Mexico, who have been brilliant so far at the tournament. Even more concerning for the Three Lions is that the Azteca Stadium sits 2,240 metres (7,350 feet) above sea level.
The high altitude means oxygen levels are notably lower, which could prove physically taxing. The England squad, unfamiliar with such conditions, are likely to be at a distinct disadvantage compared to the more acclimatised Mexican players.
However, Rashford is unfazed by the prospect of this challenge.
The 28-year-old said on Friday, “It’s going to be tough. There are no easy games in the World Cup. Different teams bring different problems to us.”
“It’s up to us on the pitch and on the training ground to find new solutions.”
He continued, “The altitude obviously plays a factor but it’s not something that we’re worried about or anything like that. We’re all experienced players. We have to manage the game.”
Uncertain future
Rashford also addressed the speculation surrounding his future. With Barcelona having opted not to make his loan move permanent, it remains unclear where he will be playing his football next season.
There has been some interest in the player, but it has also been reported that a return to United is a possibility.
Rashford openly acknowledged that he had anticipated a resolution to his club future by this juncture, though that has yet to materialise.
“Me as a person, I live in the moment. I was very clear with everyone involved before the World Cup.”
“I wanted it done before but if it’s not, then I won’t be dealing with it until after because I want to be fully present in this moment and at the same time we’re fighting to do something so special.”
Rashford’s United contract runs until 2028.
Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images
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