Assistant coach Anthony Barry confirmed at half-time that England had adopted a staged game plan.
He explained the players had been primed to expect a tough opening period up to the first water break.
They knew they would have to endure Mexico’s fast start, and that reaching the break at 0-0 would be a satisfactory outcome.
England succeeded in damping Mexico’s early momentum.
The visitors defended with more restraint than in recent matches.
Before kick-off, Tuchel—known for high-intensity pressing—had urged a more selective approach.
He said they remained committed to pressing but needed to be economical and choose their moments wisely.
For the most part, England did time their pressure well, and looked improved compared with the last-32 game against DR Congo, despite some imperfections.
When Mexico built from deep, England used Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and an extra presser—one more than against DR Congo—to close off options.
The enhanced press disrupted Mexico, but clever drop-offs often left a midfielder or winger free to receive, enabling Javier Aguirre’s side to advance.
In those moments, England’s Elliot Anderson held a deeper position near his centre-backs rather than pushing high, cutting out the easy outlet for Mexico—a detail that became significant later on.