Ahead of England's World Cup showdown with Mexico, it had been suggested that Viagra would help the Three Lions08:40, 05 Jul 2026Updated 09:07, 05 Jul 2026England have laughed off the suggestion that they could use Viagra to combat altitude during their World Cup clash with Mexico. The drug, which is predominantly known to combat erectile dysfunction, can be helpful in alleviating the strain caused by the climate issues.‌The Three Lions take on Javier Aguirre's side on Monday (1am kick-off) in Mexico City at the Azteca Stadium, 2,200 metres above sea level. A lot has been made about the altitude and how England will fare with the dizzying conditions in front of a raucous sell-out as Mexico go in search of a famous World Cup win.‌With the conditions and home crowd set to be against the Three Lions, any advantage will be taken by England, and it was reported that they might use the sexual enhancement, Viagra, to help combat some of the challenges in Mexico City.‌However, it is something England head coach Thomas Tuchel has played down. The former Chelsea boss dismissed the suggestion that the Three Lions will consider taking the drug to boost performance. He said: "The information and the support didn’t reach me. That is not true."Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now!While England veteran and former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson made a tongue-in-cheek quip as he discussed how they had been dealing with the increased altitude. The 36-year-old said: "Well, the Viagra helps... I’m joking, it’s a joke."‌Viagra was initially developed as a high blood pressure remedy but it has become an enhancement in the bedroom to combat erectile dysfunction in men. The drug widens the blood vessels in the lungs, blocking an enzyme that restricts them, which is crucial in high altitudes.At higher altitudes, such as what England will suffer on Monday, the air becomes thinner, meaning less oxygen is taken with each breath. As a result, heart rate and breathing increase, which accelerates fatigue, dehydration and a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.A report from the Sun suggested that England players will be allowed to use Viagra as the drug reduces lung pressure, alleviating the fatigue of high altitudes.‌As the drug isn't listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) list of prohibited substances, the Three Lions stars could take the drug but have completely rubbished the claims.Tuchel's side will want to avoid the similar hardship that they endured during their Round of 32 win over DR Congo. Harry Kane's double completed a fightback to ensure a 2-1 victory as the Three Lions overcame a monumental upset.Article continues belowPressure will be on England, not least being favourites to progress, after labouring to a stalemate against Ghana during the group stage, while they struggled to break down a stubborn Panama side before Jude Bellingham and Kane were on target.A quarter-final tie against Brazil or Norway awaits the winner of the match overnight, which will take place in Miami on July 11.Content cannot be displayed without consent