Fifa is currently evaluating the possibility of moving the kickoff time for the upcoming match between Mexico and England on Sunday, as concerns about severe weather, including flooding, have arisen. A source has confirmed this development.
Local media reports suggest that the match, part of the World Cup’s round of 16, could now start at noon local time (7pm BST), rather than the originally planned 6pm local time (1am BST). This adjustment is being considered due to the threat of thunderstorms.
The Football Association is urgently seeking clarification on this situation. The news came just after Thomas Tuchel and his squad completed their training session in Kansas City around 1pm Central Time. The governing body was caught off guard by the proposal and learned of it through the media.
The FA expressed astonishment at the prospect of such a last-minute change, especially considering the potential ramifications for traveling England supporters, many of whom have arranged to arrive in Mexico City on Sunday morning.
On Friday afternoon, England is set to fly from Kansas City to Mexico City to comply with a Fifa request for the team to practice at a venue-specific site the day before their match, which means training will occur on Saturday.
When questioned about the potential rescheduling, Marcus Rashford stated.
“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’s round of 32 match against Ecuador faced delays due to rain, while France’s group game against Iraq in Philadelphia was interrupted for two hours because of thunderstorms.
Fifa has not confirmed or denied the change in kick-off time when contacted for comment.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
