England vs Mexico kick-off time finally confirmed by FIFA

The kick-off time for the England and Mexico round of 16 clash at the World Cup has finally been confirmed after it had been speculated that it would be moved forward six hours for fears of weather disruption.

Originally the match had been set to kick-off at 6pm local time (1am British Standard Time); however, due to concerns around flooding and thunderstorms, FIFA had considered bringing the match forward six hours.

This would have seen the match begin at noon local time, and for fans hoping to watch England in the UK, it would have kicked off at 7pm.

However, after an evening of speculation, FIFA have finally confirmed that the match will take place at the originally scheduled time.

Lightning is seen during a weather delay before clash between Mexico and Ecuador. Image credit: Getty

The FA were left feeling ‘deeply concerned,' according to the Daily Mirror, regarding the fans that had planned to attend the match at the original time for the fixture in Mexico City.

It is believed that England are also frustrated that they were left in the dark learning about the change through the media, as it would impact their preparation for the clash.

Marcus Rashford made his feelings clear on the potential change in kick-off time as he said: “I think for us it's the same how we prepare for the game. We have to be focused. We have to be ready for anything. I think it's one of our strengths as a group. Everyone, including the players and staff... we are ready for whatever challenges get thrown at us. So obviously it's not ideal, but also it doesn't really matter."

Meanwhile, the Mexico manager was furious when he heard that their clash at the Azteca was set to become a midday kick-off, local time, on Sunday.

Javier Aguirre told Spanish-Mexican journalist Joaquin López Doriga on Radio Formula: “That’s right, it’s like a kick in the gut; it changes everything, the plan.

Rashford

“It’s not that it’s completely ruined, but almost, because you have to swallow six hours of scheduled training.

“Obviously, we will abide by what FIFA says. I don’t like it at all, nor do my players. Of course, the food, the nap, the sleep, the physiotherapy, everything, everything—it seems trivial, but it isn't.

“Today, 60 people are working here so that these 26 friends can go out on Sunday and win the game. I mean, it's not a small thing; the truth is that the change is quite important, and I'll tell you this, well, I can understand reasons and arguments, but they didn't consult me, and yes, I'm quite angry."

While both teams will be left frustrated with FIFA for the confusion and potential disruption to their preparation for the World Cup clash, the kick-off time has now been confirmed.