Mexico supporters attempted to disturb England’s players with music and fireworks near their hotel on the eve of the sides’ World Cup round of 16 tie, but were kept at a distance by police.
Footage circulating on social media appeared to show a group of fans chanting, playing music and setting off fireworks on a street close to England’s hotel in Mexico City. Early indications from within the England camp suggest the disruption had minimal effect on the players.
Riot police have been stationed along the streets immediately surrounding the hotel, moving on anyone attempting to get close. The heightened security follows a formal noise complaint lodged with FIFA by Ecuador, who were beaten 2-0 by Mexico in the last 32, after their players had their sleep disrupted by fans using loudspeakers, motorbikes and horns in the buildup to that match.
Mexico host England at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Sunday evening local time, with kick off at 1am BST on Monday.
On Saturday, England’s players were met with a mixture of cheers and jeers as they left their hotel for training under tightened security measures. Head coach Thomas Tuchel played down any concerns over how his side had been treated in Mexico, saying the experience had been friendlier than expected. He described the home supporters as friendly and respectful throughout the buildup to the match.
