England vs Mexico: Viagra, Altitude, and the Azteca Challenge

The Three Lions are headed to Mexico City for a showdown at the iconic Estadio Azteca, and the conversation leading into the game has taken a rather unusual turn. Thomas Tuchel’s side will face El Tri on Sunday (Monday morning in the UK) at an arena that sits roughly 7,000 feet (2,200 metres) above sea level — a reality that can leave even the fittest athletes gasping for air. Mexico’s home fortress has been a nightmare for visitors: they’ve lost only twice at the Azteca since 1966 and are undefeated there in ten World Cup matches. Naturally, plenty of suggestions have surfaced on how England might cope. Loading up on carbs, drinking beetroot juice, and careful hydration are among the straightforward tactics. But one theory that’s gained traction — fueled by talkSPORT — is whether England could turn to Viagra to counter the thin air. Viagra was originally developed to treat high blood pressure. It works by widening blood vessels in the lungs, helping the body pump more oxygen — a clear benefit at altitude. Lower pulmonary blood pressure can reduce fatigue and dizziness, symptoms that plague players in high-altitude settings. The drug is not on WADA’s banned list as of January, meaning it would technically be permitted. Still, talkSPORT stresses there’s no indication England will actually use it. Viagra only shows meaningful performance-enhancing effects above 3,800 metres, far beyond Mexico City’s elevation. There is precedent. Argentine club Union de Santa Fe experimented with Viagra for a match in Quito. In 2017, the Argentina national team used both Viagra and oxygen tanks during a World Cup qualifier in La Paz. And ahead of the 2010 World Cup, reports emerged that England planned to use Viagra for matches on the South African Highveld — though the FA denied it. Tuchel himself openly addressed the altitude factor: “The altitude will be a big disadvantage. It’s one of the most beautiful fixtures,” he said, acknowledging the difficulty of playing at the Azteca. Beyond Viagra, sports scientists have offered a six-point plan for England: maintain hydration and plasma volume, fuel heavily with carbohydrates, use sodium bicarbonate to buffer fatigue, protect sleep quality, adjust tactics and pacing, and drink beetroot juice. As one expert put it, “If you try to do the same thing as always, you will be screwed.” With Mexico’s intimidation factor and the raucous home crowd, England will need every edge they can find — even if Viagra stays on the shelf.