Jordan Henderson, the England midfielder, sparked a humorous controversy ahead of the Mexico clash early Monday in the World Cup round of 16, when he comically commented on the debate surrounding the use of Viagra to counter the effects of the high altitude at the Azteca Stadium.

Henderson, who is participating in his fourth World Cup, said jokingly in press remarks: 'Viagra helps,' in a sarcastic reference to reports that had circulated in recent days about the possibility of the England team using the drug to combat oxygen deficiency caused by the stadium's altitude, which exceeds 2,200 meters above sea level.

The veteran midfielder's comments came after England head coach Thomas Tuchel categorically denied the accuracy of this information, asserting: 'We did not receive this information. It is not true,' in an attempt to end the controversy that had overshadowed preparations for the crucial match.

Despite the official denial, the active ingredient in Viagra (sildenafil) is used medically as a pulmonary vasodilator and may help alleviate the effects of altitude sickness caused by low atmospheric pressure and oxygen deficiency in high-altitude areas, which explains the spread of these speculations.

England is preparing for one of its toughest matches in World Cup history, facing Mexico at the legendary Azteca Stadium in a showdown where the challenge is not only the opponent but also the high altitude factor, which causes shortness of breath and oxygen deficiency.

World Cup: Mexico vs England, 6 July 2026, 03:00.

Tuchel affirmed that his team is aware of the difficulty of the conditions, saying: 'We have to accept this disadvantage. They play most of their matches in Mexico. The first 15 minutes are crucial to withstand the pressure, and we cannot complain.'