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Rabat – England and Mexico have confirmed their starting lineups for their World Cup round-of-16 match at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has made several changes from the team that started against DR Congo.
Jarell Quansah starts at right-back after returning from injury, while Djed Spence and Reece James are both on the bench.
Jordan Pickford starts in goal behind a defensive line of Quansah, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly.
Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson start in midfield, with Jude Bellingham playing in a more advanced role.
Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon start in the wide attacking positions after both came off the bench against DR Congo.
Harry Kane leads the attack after scoring twice in England’s 2-1 win in the previous round.
England: Jordan Pickford; Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O’Reilly; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham; Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Anthony Gordon.
England are expected to use a 4-3-3 shape, although Bellingham could move closer to Kane when England attack.
Mexico start Jimenez and Quinones
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has also named a strong starting XI for the knockout match.
Raul Rangel starts in goal behind a back line of Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez and Jesus Gallardo.
Erik Lira, Luis Romo and Gilberto Mora start in midfield.
Raul Jimenez leads the attack, with Julian Quinones and Roberto Alvarado supporting him in the final third.
Mexico: Raul Rangel; Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo; Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Gilberto Mora; Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, Roberto Alvarado.
Mexico are expected to rely on their energy, home support and quick attacking transitions.
The match was also affected by heavy rain and thunderstorms before kickoff, with the teams’ arrival at the stadium delayed for safety reasons.
The winner will face Norway in the quarterfinals after Erling Haaland scored twice in Norway’s 2-1 win over Brazil.
