England sent World Cup warning as FIFA complaint submitted | Football | Sport

Ecuador have lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over the treatment they received in the build-up to their World Cup exit at the hands of Mexico, who could face England in the round of 16.

Video footage has surfaced showing La Tri’s squad holding hands in prayer before their crucial tie at the Estadio Azteca, following a late-night disturbance by Mexican supporters outside their team hotel in Mexico City. Fireworks were directed at the building, with some reports suggesting they were launched from the hotel’s rooftop, while Ecuador’s players were seen peering through curtains as the disruption continued into the small hours.

Additionally, manager Sebastian Beccacece revealed during his press conference that Ecuador reached their accommodation three hours and 20 minutes later than planned owing to unexplained hold-ups with their flight and transport.

It means they they faced a nine-hour journey after departing their Columbus training facility in Ohio on Monday morning, which provided far from ideal preparation ahead of facing in-form Mexico.

In a statement, Ecuador said: “Regarding certain off-the-field actions that took place prior to the Round of 16 match, the Ecuadorian Football Federation informs that it has submitted a formal complaint to the organisers, as this conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equity, and unity that a FIFA World Cup should represent.

“Therefore, the FEF respectfully calls upon the relevant authorities to pay closer attention to these incidents and to adopt the necessary measures to safeguard the integrity of our players, coaching staff, and supporters.

“We trust that these unsportsmanlike actions will not overshadow the football celebration that unites two brotherly nations, and that respect, healthy competition, and fair play-which give meaning to a World Cup – will prevail at all times. Ecuador will always respond to these unsportsmanlike actions on the field.”

Beccacece said: “We go, we compete, and we play, no complaints or excuses. I am grateful. We might ⁠have tired features, but how could I be upset about being in a World Cup?”

Mexico are well-versed in playing at altitude, with the Azteca sitting 2,200 metres above sea level.

Meanwhile, air quality in Mexico City remains notably poor despite improvements in recent years, which is yet another obstacle England would need to contend with.

Mexico have gone nine World Cup matches at the Azteca Stadium without tasting defeat.