Ecuador have issued a statement outlining their demands to FIFA following their World Cup elimination at the hands of Mexico. The South American nation were comprehensively defeated by the co-host country last month, with action being pursued over their mistreatment even before kick-off.

It began with their flight into the country being inexplicably delayed by several hours and persisted at their hotel, where locals appeared intent on causing maximum disturbance through loudspeakers, horns and motorcycles. Following those incidents and their 2-0 loss, Ecuador have released a fresh statement regarding Mexico, who are scheduled to meet England in the last-16.

Part of that read: “The Federation filed a formal complaint with FIFA, requesting a detailed investigation into the events that occurred before and during the match-including all those that may have compromised safety and security issues for our fans and players.

“This is the correct and official channel to clarify any situation related to a match of this magnitude.” Ecuador also disclosed their intention to appoint a new manager after Sebastian Beccacece stepped down, while confirming an internal assessment of their performances will be conducted.

The Three Lions’ preparations for their journey to Mexico City was also nearly thrown into chaos, albeit for an entirely different reason, with FIFA contemplating bringing kick-off forward by six hours. That sweeping change would have been enforced due to thunderstorms in the vicinity of the Azteca Stadium, though both camps firmly rejected the potential alteration, prompting a significant U-turn from FIFA.

Thomas Tuchel’s squad are already bracing themselves for a hostile reception and atmosphere south of the American border, with ear plugs reportedly set to be deployed to minimise any disruption. The team’s hotel in Mexico is also being kept strictly under wraps, though there are supposed concerns that its location could be leaked.

Further precautions are being taken, with England continuing to train in Kansas City amid fears their sessions could be spied upon. However, under FIFA regulations at this stage of the tournament, they are obliged to hold an open training session the day before the match.

England have just touched down in Mexico with fewer than 48 hours remaining until their last-16 showdown, following the decision to maintain the kick-off time at 6pm local time and 1am BST.