England’s World Cup Clash Against Mexico to Go Ahead as Scheduled Despite Weather Concerns

LONDON: England’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico will kick off as originally scheduled despite earlier reports that organisers were considering changing the start time due to forecasts of severe thunderstorms in Mexico City.

According to Sky News, the match will begin at 6:00 p.m. local time on Sunday (1:00 a.m. Monday in the United Kingdom) at the iconic Azteca Stadium. FIFA opted to retain the original schedule despite concerns that adverse weather could disrupt proceedings. However, officials may still delay the match if thunderstorms pose a safety risk under FIFA regulations.

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the challenge of playing at Mexico City’s high altitude of more than 2,200 metres above sea level, describing it as a disadvantage for his side as they prepare for one of their toughest tests of the tournament.

Meanwhile, the British government has extended pub opening hours across England and Wales until 5:00 a.m. on Monday, allowing supporters to watch the late-night fixture. The move has been welcomed by the hospitality industry but has drawn criticism from police leaders, who warned of increased pressure on law enforcement and the potential for alcohol-related incidents.

Elsewhere in the tournament, defending champions Argentina survived a determined challenge from Cape Verde to secure a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory, while Colombia edged Ghana 1-0 to book their place in the Round of 16 against Switzerland. Egypt also progressed after defeating Australia in a penalty shootout.

In another major development, Germany’s football federation confirmed that head coach Julian Nagelsmann has stepped down following the team’s early World Cup exit. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed him after indicating he is prepared to return to coaching.