Pat Steven/
England’s quest to end decades of FIFA World Cup heartbreak has taken an astonishing twist, with reports claiming the Three Lions have been given the green light to use Viagra as they prepare for a daunting Round of 16 showdown against co-hosts Mexico.
But before eyebrows shoot up, the famous blue pill isn’t being considered for its well-known purpose.
Instead, the medication could be used to help England’s players cope with the thin air of Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, one of world football’s most intimidating venues, which sits about 7,350 feet above sea level.
According to reports by The Sun Football, FIFA regulations allow players to use Viagra as a legitimate medical aid to improve blood circulation and reduce the effects of altitude sickness, which can cause fatigue, breathlessness and reduced stamina.
The development comes as manager Thomas Tuchel leads his side into one of their toughest tests of the tournament against a Mexican team that enjoys an extraordinary home advantage.
Mexico have turned the iconic Estadio Azteca into a fortress, losing only two of their last 89 matches there, with their most recent defeat dating back to 2013.
England, led by captain Harry Kane, alongside stars Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, head into the clash after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Democratic Republic of the Congo in the Round of 32.
With little recovery time and a hostile crowd awaiting them, England face not only a talented Mexican side but also the physical challenge posed by the city’s high altitude.
Despite the unusual medical option reportedly available to them, the Three Lions remain among the tournament favourites, entering the knockout stage with the third-best odds of lifting the World Cup trophy.
Whether the famous little blue pill becomes England’s secret weapon, or simply football’s strangest World Cup talking point, will be revealed when the Three Lions step onto the legendary turf of the Azteca.
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