England Predicted Lineup vs Mexico

Originally posted on Essential Football | By J Johnson | Last updated Jul 3, 2026 11:30 PM ET

England took their time against DR Congo in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup, but eventually broke through and came from behind to win by a score of 2-1. Now, in the last 16, they face the daunting challenge of beating Mexico at the fearsome Azteca Stadium.

All eyes are on England’s next game – but who will Thomas Tuchel pick to face one of the three host nations? Here’s who we think will feature for the Three Lions against Mexico at 1am on Monday morning. It’s going to be an early one – make sure your kettle is on the boil!

GK: Jordan Pickford

Need we explain this one? Jordan Pickford will keep his spot, despite having not been at his best. In our eyes, middling form aside, he is the best Three Lions ‘keeper since Gordon Banks.

RB: Djed Spence

According to the Independent , Reece James could be fit to play in the game against Mexico, despite prior reports stating that his World Cup may have been over. Nevertheless, it is likely to be too much, too soon for the Chelsea man – as a result, we’ve picked Djed Spence to retain his spot at right-back.

CB: Ezri Konsa

Ezri Konsa has looked a little unsteady all tournament, sadly. Nevertheless, with no superior options at Tuchel’s disposal, it is unlikely that the Aston Villa man will be dropped at this juncture.

CB: Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi, on the other hand, has hardly put a foot wrong. We’re amazed to see that certain audiences have been critical of him – the Manchester City star has bailed out England on a number of a occasions in the World Cup this year.

LB: Nico O’Reilly

Nico O’Reilly, after a so-so start to the World Cup, has improved dramatically in his last couple of outings. When allowed to drift centrally and carry the ball through midfield, he is a serious threat.

CM: Declan Rice

Is Declan Rice England’s best player? He’s certainly in the top three. If fully fit, the Arsenal man is an absolute certainty to start against Mexico.

CM: Elliot Anderson

Elliot Anderson was uncharacteristically poor against DR Congo, but he should keep his spot nontheless – England will need his energy and tenacity to keep up with a dynamic Mexico outfit.

RW: Bukayo Saka

We’ve yet to see the best of Bukayo Saka at the World Cup. Honestly, we feel it is a toss-up as to whether Tuchel starts him or Noni Madueke, but we feel he’ll show preference to the player with more proven experience on the international stage.

AM: Jude Bellingham

Yes, Jude Bellingham was well off the pace against DR Congo, but he still remains one of England’s star men. With such an important encounter on the horizon, he won’t be dropped.

LW: Anthony Gordon

Anthony Gordon’s World Cup got off to a disappointing start, but he redeemed himself with an excellent display from the bench against DR Congo. For this, he should regain his spot.