England’s next World Cup opponent, Mexico, is at the center of the World Cup controversy, with Ecuador releasing a new update on its complaint to FIFA.
Ecuador provided an update on FIFA complaints ahead of their World Cup match against Mexico (Photo by Cesar Gomez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
Ecuador has issued a statement calling on FIFA to launch an investigation following its World Cup defeat at the hands of Mexico. The South American nation comfortably defeated the co-hosts last month, with action taken against them for their poor treatment even before the match took place.
The situation began when the plane entering the country was mysteriously delayed for several hours, and civilians continued to cause maximum disruption at the hotel with loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles.
Following these incidents and the 2-0 defeat, Ecuador issued a new statement against Mexico, who are scheduled to face England in the last 16.
“The federation has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, requesting a detailed investigation into the events that occurred before and during the match, including all incidents that may have compromised the safety and security issues of fans and players,” the statement read in part.
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“This is the correct official channel to clarify any circumstances relating to a match of this magnitude.”
Ecuador also revealed plans to appoint a new head coach following the resignation of Sebastian Beccasse, and also confirmed that an interval review of the display would be carried out.
Preparations for the Three Lions’ trip to Mexico City almost came to a halt, but for a very different reason, with FIFA discussing moving kick-off six hours earlier.
This drastic change was supposed to be implemented due to the threat of thunderstorms around Azteca Stadium, but both sides strongly rejected the possibility of the change, leading to a major U-turn.
Thomas Tuchel’s side are already expecting a hostile reception and atmosphere south of the US border, with earplugs reportedly to be used to avoid disruption.
Thomas Tuchel and England players will use earplugs to avoid disturbances at a hotel in Mexico (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Their hotel in Mexico is also kept secret, but there is reportedly a risk that information may be leaked. England continue to train in Kansas City amid fears their training sessions could be spied on, with other precautions being taken.
However, FIFA regulations at this stage of the competition require an open session to be held the day before the match.
England have just arrived in Mexico with less than 48 hours left until their last-16 clash following the decision to kick-off at 6pm local time and 1am BST.
