England Under-17s touched down in Chile on Friday as the countdown to kick-off for the FIFA World Cup sped up a notch.
The Young Lions have been together since last Sunday and spent the week preparing at St. George’s Park, where they defeated DR Congo 8-0 on Wednesday, before beginning their journey to South America late on Thursday evening.
Having landed at breakfast in the capital Santiago, the squad settled into their surroundings in the city before enjoying a light training session in the afternoon underneath the impressive backdrop of the Andes.
Chile v England
U17s International
10pm, Sunday 11 October
Estadio el Teniente, Rancagua, Chile
"It’s beautiful. Flying in over the Andes was special, and we noticed the pilot dipped his wing one side then the other so everybody could see, which was lovely," said England head coach Neil Dewsnip.
"The drive into the city was equally spectacular. You can see the Andes all around it and the staff and players did not miss that – so from a cultural point of view it’s been really interesting.
"We are also within a stone’s throw of what we are led to believe is the tallest building in South America, the Gran Torre Santiago.
"Then the training facilities were lovely, surrounded by the mountains which were covered in snow, it was a really nice start."
England head coach Neil Dewsnip
Former Everton head of academy Dewsnip continued: "It is exciting. Brazil’s senior team were here the day before us and were sent packing after a 2-0 defeat, and I think Chile are now very much the kings of South America at the moment.
"I’m sure that will filter down to their younger sides as well."
England begin their World Cup campaign against Guinea next Saturday, but first they face a mouthwatering final warm-up match against the host nation on Sunday.
The 14,000 seater Estadio el Teniente in Rancagua will be the venue for the contest, a clash that Dewsnip feels will provide a vital experience for his youngsters.
"When we were coming back from the training ground a few of the lorry drivers were waving their Chilean flags at us after noticing our England badge on the coach, so there’s a bit of banter going on already and it’s clear they are a football mad nation," he added.
"I think the players are realising that it’s not just England that has a huge footballing culture.
"With it being our last game before the World Cup, it is very important. We want to make sure that the lads are fully prepared and ready to go in that first game. That means technically, tactically and physically."
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