Possible Rescheduling of England-Mexico Match

The round of 16 match between England and Mexico might not kick off at the originally scheduled time. FIFA is contemplating adjusting the game due to potential weather disruptions, as reported by local media.

Currently, the match is set for 6 PM local time at the Azteca Stadium, but there are discussions about moving it to midday to avoid bad weather, including possible flooding. This would mean a 7 PM UK time or 2 PM ET start instead.

This comes after a previous Round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador in Mexico City was postponed due to rain, raising concerns about the conditions for the upcoming game.

An earlier start could shift the match from a cooler evening atmosphere to a hotter afternoon, complicating an already critical knockout game.

Yet, England midfielder Morgan Rodgers doesn’t seem too worried about the potential time change. “It’s just another obstacle for us to tackle,” he mentioned. “I’m prepared, no matter what.”

Rodgers added, “The sooner we play, the better. We need to focus on what’s ahead and build up for it. I’m eager for the match, whether it’s day or night. The adrenaline always helps us get ready.”

If the kickoff time does change, it might introduce yet another challenge for England. The team advanced to this round after a thrilling 2-1 victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Traveling from Atlanta to Mexico City, which is over 2,000 meters above sea level, is a priority for manager Thomas Tuchel. He has remarked, “I realize that adapting to altitude isn’t realistic. Mexico holds a significant advantage there. The timeframe isn’t conducive for adaptation—it’s physically impossible to adjust effectively in just three days.”

Concerns about potential spying from opponents led England to postpone their trip to Mexico until Friday.