World Cup 2026: England’s Last 16 match with Mexico STARTS at 1am on Monday | Football news
England’s World Cup Last 16 match against Mexico will go ahead at 1am on Monday after confusion over the timing.
Severe and severe weather is forecast to hit Mexico City at an early date.
That led to reports at 8pm on Friday night that FIFA were considering bringing the game forward six hours and were in talks with the English and Mexican FAs.
The new proposed launch time would have been 7pm UK time on Sunday – midday local time.
This would have been a great start time for England fans watching from home but it would have added to the problems for both teams preparing for the match and for the supporters who would be playing at the Azteca Stadium.
Later on Friday evening, the course of action changed again, with local reporters reporting that the Mexican FA was unhappy with the possibility of a restart.
Just before midnight on Friday night UK time, Sky Sports News they were able to ensure that the initial start time would last; however, FIFA will continue to monitor the situation, especially any changes in the weather.
FIFA sources told Sky Sports News that no decision was ever taken to cancel the game.
Thomas Tuchel’s team flew to Mexico on Friday and left unsure of what the verdict would be.
Speaking after training earlier in the day, England midfielder Morgan Rogers said: “We’ll be ready whatever the time.” However, he added: “Before is better because you want to play.”
Teammate Marcus Rashford, said: “We have to be focused. We have to be ready for anything. I think it’s one of our strengths as a team – everyone, including players and staff, we’re ready for whatever challenges we face.”
The first half is always a bad one for England fans back in the UK. After beating DR Congo in the previous round, Tuchel was asked what his message is to parents of children who will want to watch the game.
He said: “Make an excuse for the school and let them watch football. Come on. There are many schools to study but the World Cup is held every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big game and we need everyone’s support, especially the children.”
On Thursday, the UK government announced that pubs and bars will be able to stay open until 5am on Monday so that England fans can watch the knock-out game. The government used legislative powers to extend licensing hours on the basis that Mexico vs England was an event of “national importance”.
