England's round of 16 fixture against Mexico at the FIFA World Cup will kick off at 1am UK time, as originally scheduled, after a chaotic 24 hours in which reports emerged that the game could be moved forward by six hours to 7pm.

Mexican media had suggested the match might be brought forward due to the threat of thunderstorms and flooding in Mexico City. However, neither the Mexican FA nor The Football Association had been informed of any such change when the reports first surfaced, leaving both sides in the dark.

Thomas Tuchel and his England squad departed their Kansas City base for Mexico City without knowing whether the kick-off time had shifted. Ultimately, it was confirmed that moving the match inside a 48-hour window was logistically impossible, given the coordination required with police, military, both teams, match officials, and supporters.

Air quality concerns for England

An earlier start would also have raised concerns for England's preparation. Air quality in Mexico City is noticeably denser in the morning hours, making an earlier kick-off potentially harmful to the Three Lions' performance.

Aguirre and Neville blast FIFA

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre was furious when news of the potential change broke. Speaking on Radio Formula, he did not hold back.