Mexico will be aiming to continue its impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign when it hosts England in a blockbuster Round of 16 clash at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Javier Aguirre’s men have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, combining defensive solidity with clinical finishing to reach the knockout stages without conceding a goal.
After ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory with a commanding win over Ecuador, confidence is sky-high in the Mexican camp.
Aguirre is expected to stick with the core of the side that has served him well throughout the tournament, with only minor selection dilemmas ahead of Sunday’s encounter.
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One of the biggest talking points is whether 17-year-old midfield prodigy Gilberto Mora retains his place in the starting XI.
The youngster justified his inclusion against Ecuador with an energetic display, leading Mexico’s pressing game and constantly disrupting the opposition’s build-up play.
Although he was substituted before the hour mark, his work rate and tactical discipline are likely to convince Aguirre to hand him another start on football’s biggest stage.
In midfield, experienced duo Luis Romo and Erik Lira are expected to provide the balance alongside Mora. Romo’s composure in possession and ability to dictate the tempo complements Lira’s defensive awareness and ball-winning qualities, giving Mexico a solid platform in both defensive and attacking transitions.
Mexico’s attacking trio has looked increasingly dangerous as the tournament has progressed. Roberto Alvarado should continue on the right flank, where his intelligent movement and delivery create constant problems for defenders.
Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez is expected to spearhead the attack, using his physical presence to occupy England’s centre-backs while linking play in the final third.
On the opposite wing, Julián Quiñones has arguably been Mexico’s standout performer at the World Cup. With three goals and an assist already to his name, the forward has been clinical whenever opportunities have fallen his way and will once again be Mexico’s biggest attacking threat against England.
Defensively, Aguirre has little reason to make changes. Goalkeeper Raúl Rangel has been outstanding between the posts, while the back four of Jorge Sánchez, César Montes, Johan Vásquez and Jesús Gallardo has developed into one of the most organised defensive units remaining in the tournament.
Their compact shape, aerial dominance and disciplined positioning have ensured Mexico remains one of the few teams yet to concede a goal in the competition.
With momentum on their side and home support expected to create a hostile atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca, El Tri are likely to rely on continuity rather than experimentation as they look to upset one of the tournament favourites.
Mexico Predicted Lineup vs England
Predicted Mexico XI (4-3-3) :Raúl Rangel,Jorge Sánchez,César Montes,Johan Vásquez,Jesús Gallardo, Luis Romo,Erik Lira, Gilberto Mora,Roberto Alvarado, Raúl Jiménez, Julián Quiñones
Read more about other World Cup teams in 2026 below:
Morocco national football team 2026
Argentina national football team 2026
Mexico national football team 2026
Spain national football team 2026
Brazil national football team 2026
France national football team 2026
Senegal national football team 2026