FIFA is currently in discussions regarding the potential rescheduling of the Mexico vs. England match to an earlier hour on Sunday, as confirmed by a source. This change is being considered due to concerns about possible weather disruptions, including flooding.
Local media reports indicate that England’s World Cup clash against Mexico may now commence at noon local time (7 PM BST). Originally, the match was slated to kick off at 6 PM local time (1 AM BST), but forecasts of thunderstorms have prompted this reconsideration.
The Football Association is seeking clarity on the matter, which surfaced just as manager Thomas Tuchel and his squad concluded their training session in Kansas City around 1 PM Central Time. The governing body was caught off guard by this news, having learned about it through media outlets.
The FA expressed disbelief that such a significant change is being contemplated so close to the game day, especially considering the potential implications for traveling England supporters, some of whom have arranged their arrivals in Mexico City for Sunday morning.
England is set to depart from Kansas City to Mexico City on Friday afternoon to comply with FIFA’s request for the team to practice at a specific venue the day before the match—namely, on Saturday.
When asked about the possibility of the match being rescheduled, Marcus Rashford remarked, “I think for us it’s the same, how we prepare for the game, it has to be the same, we have to be focused, we have to be ready for anything. I think it’s one of the strengths of the group, everyone included, the players, the staff, we’re ready for whatever challenges get thrown at us. Obviously it’s not ideal but also it doesn’t matter.”
Earlier this week, Mexico experienced a delay in their round of 32 match against Ecuador due to rain, while France’s group game against Iraq in Philadelphia was interrupted for two hours because of thunderstorms.
When approached for comment, FIFA did not confirm or deny whether the kick-off time had been altered.
More details to follow.
