As anticipation builds for the World Cup 2026 knockout match between Mexico and England, a thunderstorm has cast a shadow over the event. Currently, there are no indications that the start time will be postponed, but play cannot commence until at least 30 minutes after lightning has been detected within an eight-mile radius.
Samuel Dodson humorously noted, “Perhaps the Carpenters had it right when they wrote Rainy Days and Mondays,” referring to the match’s timing coinciding with the start of the workweek in the UK. He expressed concern about the likelihood of the storm affecting the match, pondering, “given the scheduled start time of this match is supposed to be the way those of us in the UK kick off the working week – but all this talk of thunder and lightning is, to quote Queen, very very frightening. What are the chances this storm pulls a Barbra Streisand and rains on our parades and postpones the match? “And if it is postponed, what advice do you have for those brave enough to venture to the pub in the early hours who may be faced twiddling their thumbs – other than, of course, brainstorming inevitable weather-based football pun headlines? (Although here’s hoping a Hurri-kane force blows this Mexico team away).”
Dodson also queried what advice could be offered to those brave enough to venture to pubs in the early hours, suggesting they might be left twiddling their thumbs if the match is delayed. He added, “I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more.” Pubs are required to close by 5am BST, meaning a delayed kickoff could result in patrons being ushered out just as extra time begins.
In other news, Carlos Queiroz has announced his departure as head coach of the Ghana national team following their exit from the World Cup at the last 32 stage. Queiroz, who previously managed Iran in Qatar, stated, “The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch.”
He encouraged Ghana to aim higher, asserting, “Reaching a higher level should never be the destination – it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions. “Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent.” emphasizing the importance of off-field success in developing football talent.
Queiroz took the helm in April after Otto Addo was dismissed. Meanwhile, in other World Cup action, scoring opportunities are being squandered, with no goals recorded so far in the Brazil vs Norway match under Tom Lutz’s guidance.
In terms of team news, Jarell Quansah is set to start for England at right-back following his recovery from a twisted ankle. Djed Spence is dealing with a calf issue and is not yet match-ready, while Reece James has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Coach Thomas Tuchel is facing challenges in the right-back position, and the selection for the wings remains uncertain, although Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon are expected to take those roles.
As the match approaches, David Hytner reports from the Azteca Stadium, “The first incredibly loud claps of thunder were heard here at 2:40 PM local time – just over three hours before the scheduled 6 PM kickoff. Now, it is pouring rain. This was anticipated, which led to discussions about moving the kickoff earlier, but that proved impossible. Journalists and photographers have been instructed to remain indoors at the stadium media center. Perhaps it is fortunate that the storm began slightly earlier, allowing more time for it to clear before 6 PM, although the truth of that is uncertain!”
