England manager Thomas Tuchel has criticized a FIFA regulation that he says gives Mexico a massive advantage ahead of their World Cup round of 16 match in Mexico City.
The match is set to take place at the Azteca Stadium, situated 2,240 meters above sea level, where Mexico has already played three tournament games and is highly acclimated.
Tuchel explained that the Football Association researched altitude management with help from organizations like the British Olympic team, concluding that arriving either 10 days early or on matchday is optimal.
However, FIFA rules dictate that teams must train at venue-specific sites near the stadium the day before knockout matches, forcing England to fly from Kansas City on Friday afternoon.
"The recommendation is you either go 10 days before – which is too long for us – or last minute, which is not allowed [by FIFA]," Tuchel said.
The England manager noted that late travel on matchday is preferred by experienced teams when acclimation time is unavailable, meaning his squad must settle for an unfavorable compromise.
"Yes, it's a huge advantage [for Mexico]," Tuchel replied when asked about the situation.
Despite the logistical setback, the coach noted that arriving earlier gives England extra time to adapt to the altitude, which alters how the ball travels.
"The ball will fly differently [in the altitude]. It will fly maybe five yards more.
It's just difficult. We just need the experience," Tuchel said.
Tuchel also addressed the physical state of midfielder Declan Rice, who has managed hamstring nerve pain since Christmas and suffered a recurrence against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
"I asked Declan how he was. He said: 'I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain.'
And when Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it any more," Tuchel said.
The manager added that Rice was grateful to be substituted and said after the game it's not an issue.
"There is no injury. I think he will recover.
He was just in pain and I hope he is right. It's more neural pain.
Can he go from game to game? He can, yes," Tuchel said.
Tuchel was also questioned about potential disruptions from local fans outside the team hotel, following recent complaints from Ecuador regarding fireworks.
"We will expect that but what can we do?" Tuchel said.
The coaching staff intends to mitigate potential noise disruptions by providing protective gear for the squad ahead of the match.
"Yeah, we will bring some stuff. I expect everything," Tuchel said.
