England’s preparations for their massive World Cup meeting with Mexico have been shaken up by uncertainty surrounding the kick-off time after Fifa backtracked on moving the match forward by six hours.
The country was bracing for an early morning 1am BST kick-off, with pubs in the United Kingdom allowed to stay open until the early hours – but in a late twist, kick-off looked set to be changed to 7pm BST on Sunday afternoon due to a storm threat in Mexico City. However, it’s now understood that Fifa have gone back on these plans with both England and Mexico’s federations irate.
England are in the last 16 after Harry Kane’s double saved Thomas Tuchel’s side – and perhaps the manager’s job – against DR Congo after falling behind early in Atlanta, but a far tougher test is to come.
The Mexico clash will provide a unique challenge with altitude and an anticipated hostile reception providing added factors for the England squad as they prepare for the Estadio Azteca – scene of Diego Maradona’s contrasting double in 1986. Declan Rice has been declared fully fit in a significant injury boost, while England are also plotting to avoid the impact of a boisterous set of Mexico supporters at their hotel.
Follow all the build-up to Sunday’s exciting tie with co-hosts Mexico:
What is the team news?
Mexico have no major worries, although star winger Julian Quinones is managing a knock.
Right-back remains the primary area of concern for England and Thomas Tuchel with Reece James and Jarrel Quansah both fighting for fitness.
Should they not be available Djed Spence could continue there despite struggling throughout the DR Congo game.
Declan Rice will play despite his continuing issues with what Tuchel described as “terrible” neural pain.
Who will the winner face next?
The winners will meet Brazil or Norway in a last eight tie slated for Saturday 11 July in Miami at 10pm BST.
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on BBC1, with coverage on the channel from 12am BST. A live stream will be available via BBC iPlayer.
What time is Mexico vs England kick-off?
England face the daunting prospect of ending Mexico’s 13-year unbeaten run at the Azteca Stadium in what promises to be a compelling World Cup 2026 last-16 clash.
Thomas Tuchel’s team, who are yet to hit the heights expected of them pre-tournament, must deal with a passionate home crowd and the complications of performing at altitude.
Mexico vs England is due to kick off at 1am BST on Monday 6 July at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City – but that may change because of the threat of severe thunderstorms. A new time of 7pm BST on Sunday has been proposed, according to reports in Mexico.
Good morning!
Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup as we build up to England’s fascinating last-16 tie against Mexico on Sunday.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 1am BST Sunday night/early Monday morning but there were rumours that Fifa were looking to change the start time due to possible storm threats.
The lack of communication from Fifa caused a storm of its own yesterday as fluctuations to the start time created an uncertain chaos around the game before it seems Fifa reverted back to the original kick off time.
England, meanwhile, are preparing for a battle against the World Cup co-hosts at altitude with the Azteca Stadium a cauldron they must overcome should they hope to reach the quarter finals.
We’ll have all the latest news and build up throughout the next couple of days ahead of Mexico v England.
