Riot Police Guard England Hotel in Mexico City After Hostile Reception Ahead of Mexico World Cup Clash

As England are up against Mexico in their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, the atmosphere outside of England's team hotel remains an intense one.

More than 100 riot police officers, many wearing bulletproof vests, are standing guard at the hotel where the England team is staying in Mexico City following a hostile welcome upon their arrival for the 2026 FIFA World Cup round-of-16 match against Mexico.

The Three Lions had hoped to keep their base secret after reports that Mexico supporters used loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles in an attempt to disrupt Ecuador's players' sleep before their last-32 encounter, which the co-hosts won 2-0 on Wednesday night.

Despite the precautions, hundreds of fans were already waiting when England's coach pulled up at the hotel. Many booed the team while others chanted "Mexico". On Saturday, around 200 locals gathered near the premises, which is protected by a security fence lined with officers from the Guardia Nacional.

A police dog and drone are also being deployed in the vicinity, with the England team bus parked outside the hotel. England captain Harry Kane expressed hope that a strong performance on the pitch could lift the nation, particularly with the match's early kick-off time creating unusual viewing conditions back home.

"Obviously it's good news that the pubs are staying open for the fans," he said.

"We know how much the World Cup means to everyone and all the fans at home, so I'm hoping there will be a few all-nighters to be honest, just going all the way through and celebrating until the next day and then catch up on some sleep after that."

"Obviously it's very late and we all appreciate the support. That's what sometimes makes the World Cup so unique is these different timings and different memories that you create. I think everyone would love nothing more than to be celebrating as the sun's rising at 5 or 6 am," he added.

UK pub landlords had been awaiting confirmation from FIFA, with emergency legislation passed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer allowing premises to remain open late for the knockout fixture.

The match in Mexico City is scheduled to proceed at the planned time, despite forecasts of storms that had prompted discussions about potentially bringing the game forward. Police officers remain on duty outside the hotel as England prepare for what promises to be a charged atmosphere in the Mexican capital.