Tuchel Warns England Face 7,200ft Altitude Disadvantage Against Mexico
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 1
Tuchel Warns England Face 7,200ft Altitude Disadvantage Against Mexico
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 1
Summary
Three days before England's last-16 tie, Thomas Tuchel said his players cannot physically adapt in time to Mexico City's 7,200ft altitude and will arrive only two days before kickoff.
Research cited in the report says athletes typically need one to two weeks at altitude to acclimatise, while thinner air reduces oxygen intake and can hinder performance.
Mexico enter with a built-in edge after playing all four World Cup matches at altitude, including three at the Azteca and one in Guadalajara, about 5,000ft above sea level.
Harry Kane's double in the win over DR Congo sent England into Monday's knockout game, where Tuchel said his side must simply cope with another obstacle in their bid for a first World Cup title in 60 years.