England booed on arrival in Mexico as hotel location leaked and BBC deny FIFA kick-off talks

England’s preparations for their World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico have been overshadowed by a series of off-field controversies, including a hostile reception on arrival, the leak of their hotel location, and a FIFA emergency meeting over a proposed kick-off time change.

The Three Lions were greeted by boos and shouting from Mexican supporters as they arrived in the co-host nation, a preview of the atmosphere they can expect at the Azteca. Their attempts to keep their hotel location private also unravelled almost immediately after it was leaked.

The BBC were drawn into the controversy after reports in Mexico claimed the broadcaster had been involved in discussions with FIFA to bring the match forward by six hours to 12pm local time (7pm BST). A spokesperson for the BBC flatly denied the claims, stating they were “not involved in these discussions.” FIFA had convened an emergency meeting over the proposed change before performing a U-turn on the plan. According to The Athletic, the talks centred on fan safety concerns, with officials worried about the risks associated with evening kick-offs and extended pre- and post-match gatherings, though thunderstorms are also forecast in the area.

Mexico, who beat Ecuador to reach the last 16, are not the only team with grievances ahead of the fixture. Ecuador have since released a statement demanding a “detailed investigation” into their treatment before that match, issuing what amounts to a warning about the disruption England could face.

Elsewhere in the tournament, all last-32 matches have now concluded. Colombia and Argentina were the final two sides to book their places in the last 16. England could face either nation in the semi-finals, but would first need to overcome Mexico and then one of Brazil or Norway.

Argentina’s passage was far from straightforward. Cape Verde pushed them to extra time with two stunning strikes before an unfortunate own goal ended their run. Lionel Messi was instrumental in two of Argentina’s goals and was effusive in his praise for the African side afterwards, telling TyC Sports: “They asked for my jersey, everything… On the field, they kick the crap out of me, ha.” Messi was fouled five times across the 120 minutes.

Paraguay’s surprise elimination of Germany was the other standout result, a win that was nearly overshadowed by Cape Verde’s dramatic display against Argentina in the same window of fixtures.