England face a daunting assignment in the World Cup last 16: a meeting with the host nation in its own capital, at altitude, and with little opportunity to properly acclimatise.
Their build-up has been anything but straightforward. A four-hour spell of urgent discussions with Fifa left them uncertain over the exact kick-off time, before their arrival was met by a loud and hostile welcome from local supporters.
It is fair to say England’s preparations for their knockout clash with Mexico have not followed the ideal script.
The outlook grew more complicated overnight as weather forecasts deteriorated, with the chance of thunderstorms around kick-off — scheduled for 1am tomorrow in the UK — now put at 90 per cent.
Given Fifa’s protocol of imposing a 30-minute delay when lightning is detected near a stadium, further disruption now appears highly likely.
Yet none of this seemed to dampen the spirits of England’s travelling fans.
As they poured into Mexico City last night, singing and celebrating, the mood was one of determined belief rather than anxiety.
They remain convinced that Thomas Tuchel’s side can overcome Mexico, despite the hosts’ formidable record at the Azteca Stadium, where they have lost just two of 89 matches played 2,240 metres above sea level.
Harry Kane arrives in Mexico City. England are playing against a host nation in their capital city, playing at altitude without the time to adapt
England fans celebrate at Boxpark. Bosses across the country were fielding last-minute leave requests on Friday, with many bracing for thousands of workers calling in sick on Monday
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Alfie Van Loo, 45, from Leatherhead, Surrey, said: ‘This match was always going to be the dream game.
‘Mexico in the Azteca – it doesn’t get any bigger than that. I’ve paid £1,000 for the ticket, but I don’t care. The atmosphere is going to be unforgettable.’
Andy Allen, who is retired, from Blackburn, said: ‘It’s going to be fantastic, I can’t wait for it. The atmosphere in there will be electric. We just have to hold our nerve.’
Offshore worker Danny Thompson, 44, from Ipswich, said: ‘It will be a tough one, but we will stay positive.’
The can-do spirit is shared in the England camp. Captain Harry Kane, who has already scored five goals at this tournament, said: ‘It’s about writing our own history.
‘We know we have the chance to do something really special in a special stadium away from home. That’s why you play football, to have these epic games.’
Back home, the nation is gearing up for an all-night party, with England fans stocking up to roar on the Three Lions.
An estimated 13 million are expected to stay up to watch, while around 6,000 pubs are expected to cash in after a government U-turn means they can stay open until 5am.
An incredible 38 million pints are expected to be drunk either in pubs – or by fans cheering England on from the sofa at home.
Pub chain Greene King said more than 600 pubs across England will be staying open late.
Bosses across the country were fielding last-minute leave requests on Friday, with many bracing for thousands of workers calling in sick on Monday. Parents are wrestling with whether to let their children stay up.
Some schools are letting pupils attend lessons later than normal.
‘We would rather have children in school rested and ready to learn rather than tired or absent,’ said a message posted on Facebook by Berwick Hills Primary School in Middlesbrough.
Greenland Community Primary School in County Durham said children can come in at 10am and do not need to wear uniforms.
