England’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against co-hosts Mexico could kick off several hours earlier than planned after FIFA opened discussions over changing the schedule due to the risk of severe weather in Mexico City. With thunderstorms forecast around the original kick-off time, world football’s governing body is keen to avoid the kind of lengthy disruption that has already affected matches during the tournament.
The match at the iconic Estadio Azteca had originally been scheduled to begin at 1:00 am BST on Monday (6:00 pm local time Sunday). However, FIFA is understood to be considering bringing the kick-off forward to 7:00 pm BST (2:00 pm ET), with England winger Marcus Rashford admitting the change would be “not ideal” but insisting Thomas Tuchel’s side are prepared for any scenario.
“I think for us it’s the same how we prepare for the game,” Rashford said.
“We have to be focused. We have to be ready for anything. I think it’s one of our strengths as a group. Everyone, including the players and staff, we are ready for whatever challenges get thrown at us. So obviously it’s not ideal but also it doesn’t really matter.”
FIFA’s concern follows weather-related disruption earlier in the tournament. Mexico’s Round of 32 clash against Ecuador was delayed by an hour because of thunderstorms and lightning, while France’s group-stage meeting with Iraq in Philadelphia was held up for more than two hours under tournament safety protocols.
Under FIFA regulations, any lightning strike detected within eight miles of the stadium automatically results in a minimum 30-minute suspension of play. Tournament rules also give FIFA the authority to “cancel, reschedule or relocate” matches at its discretion if health, safety or security concerns arise.
WHY FIFA COULD CHANGE KICK-OFF
If approved, the revised schedule would see England and Mexico play during the afternoon rather than the evening. While that reduces the risk of thunderstorms, it introduces another challenge altogether.
Temperatures are expected to rise to around 26 degrees Celsius during the proposed earlier kick-off, compared to roughly 20 degrees for the original evening slot. Combined with the high altitude of Mexico City, conditions would become significantly more demanding for both teams.
The Estadio Azteca sits approximately 2,240 metres above sea level, where thinner air reduces oxygen intake, increasing fatigue, dehydration and recovery time. England have already adjusted their preparations by travelling to Mexico City two days before the match instead of their usual one-day arrival.
“We will go one night earlier. It makes sense,” England manager Thomas Tuchel said.
“The ball will fly differently. It will fly maybe five yards more. It’s just difficult. We just need the experience.”
Tuchel admitted there is no perfect solution to adapting to altitude in such a short timeframe.
“The recommendation is you either go 10 days before, which is too long for us, or last minute, which is not allowed,” he explained. “We have to find a mixture in between. It will stay as a disadvantage.”
ENGLAND FACE HOSTILE ATMOSPHERE AT AZTECA
Weather is not the only challenge awaiting England in Mexico City.
The Football Association is also expected to receive enhanced security around the team’s hotel after chaotic scenes unfolded outside Ecuador’s accommodation before Mexico’s previous knockout match. Hundreds of Mexico supporters gathered through the night, setting off fireworks, revving engines and chanting in an attempt to disrupt Ecuador’s preparations.
England are expected to benefit from additional security measures, including possible roadblocks around their hotel, as FIFA looks to avoid a repeat before Sunday’s blockbuster.
On the pitch, Tuchel’s side know an even bigger test awaits. Mexico boast an outstanding record at the Estadio Azteca, having lost only twice in 89 matches at the famous venue, and more than 80,000 home supporters are expected to create one of the fiercest atmospheres of the tournament.
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