FIFA World Cup 2026: Storm threat could bring earlier kick-off for England's R32 clash with Mexico
London, July 4
FIFA is in ongoing talks over an earlier kick-off for England's World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash with co-hosts Mexico on Sunday because of the threat of storms in Mexico City, Sky News reported.
The match at the Estadio Azteca was originally scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m. local time (0000 GMT Monday), but local media reported on Friday that it could instead begin at noon (1800 GMT) to reduce the risk of weather-related disruption.
Sky News also reported that discussions between FIFA and the Football Association were ongoing, although no final decision had been announced.
The governing body appears keen to avoid a repeat of the lengthy weather interruptions that affected several matches during last year's Club World Cup in the United States. Mexico's previous World Cup match against Ecuador was also delayed by rain, underlining concerns over afternoon and evening storms.
An earlier start would also alter viewing plans for supporters in England, where special licensing arrangements had been made to allow pubs to remain open until the early hours of Monday morning for the original kick-off time.
Whenever the match begins, England face arguably their toughest assignment of the tournament against an unbeaten Mexico side playing at the 2,200-metre altitude of the Azteca.
Thomas Tuchel's team needed a late fightback to edge the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in the previous round after falling behind to Brian Cipenga's early strike. Captain Harry Kane rescued England with a decisive second-half double, taking his tally to five goals and moving into contention for the tournament's Golden Boot.
Despite advancing, England's performance raised questions after they failed to register a shot on target until the 30th minute and struggled to break down the Congolese for long periods.
Mexico, meanwhile, have gathered momentum on home soil and reached the last 16 with a composed 2-0 victory over Ecuador after progressing through the group stage unbeaten.
For England, the return to the Azteca also revives memories of their infamous 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina. This time, however, Tuchel's side must overcome both the hosts and the challenges posed by one of football's most demanding venues if they are to reach the quarter-finals.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, moving the kick-off to noon is a smart move. Weather disruptions ruin the flow of the game, and fans in England will just have to adjust their pub timings. But let's be real—Mexico at home in the Azteca is a nightmare for any team. England better bring their A-game.
I remember watching the 1986 quarter-final replay on Doordarshan as a kid. Maradona's Hand of God still stings for England fans! This time, they have a chance at redemption, but Mexico is no pushover. Kane's form is impressive, but the team's slow start against Congo is worrying. Need more urgency.
Fair play to FIFA for considering safety first. But as an expat living in Bangalore, I feel for the fans back in England who planned their early Monday mornings around the original kick-off. Still, we Indians know a thing or two about last-minute schedule changes—just ask any cricket fan! 😂
The altitude factor is being underestimated. At 2,200 metres, even the fittest players struggle. Mexico has the home advantage, and England's squad depth will be tested. Tuchel needs to rotate the squad to keep legs fresh. Also, Kane for Golden Boot? Desperate for India to qualify one day—we'd show them real passion! 🇮🇳⚽
As someone who's been to Mexico City, the afternoon storms are no joke. But an earlier kick-off means the heat will be intense. It's a trade-off. England's defence looked shaky against Congo—they can't afford to
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