England's FIFA World Cup 2026 last-16 clash with Mexico will kick off at 1am UK time on Monday at the Azteca Stadium, as originally scheduled, after a turbulent few hours in which a possible time change dominated headlines.

Weather threat sparks kick-off panic

Thunderstorms are forecast to strike Mexico City around the time of the match, prompting reports on Friday evening — at around 8pm UK time — that FIFA were in discussions with both the English and Mexican FAs about moving the game forward by six hours. The proposed alternative kick-off would have been 7pm UK time on Sunday, or midday local time in Mexico City.

While that window would have been far more convenient for England supporters watching from home, it raised complications for both squads in their final preparations, as well as for fans already making their way to the Azteca Stadium.

Mexican FA pushes back

Later on Friday evening, the picture shifted. Local journalists reported that the Mexican FA was firmly opposed to any rescheduling, and just before midnight UK time, Sky Sports News confirmed the original kick-off time would stand. FIFA said it would continue to monitor the weather situation but that no formal decision to move the game had ever been made.

Thomas Tuchel's squad flew to Mexico on Friday, boarding their flight without knowing how the situation would be resolved.

Players ready for anything

England midfielder Morgan Rogers, speaking after a training session earlier that day, struck a composed tone: