The FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between England and Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico will begin on Monday at 1 am UK time, maintaining the original schedule despite concerns about adverse weather, Sky Sports has reported.
Thunderstorms and poor weather conditions are expected around kick-off time at the Mexican stadium. Reports had suggested that FIFA was considering moving the match six hours earlier to 7 pm UK time on Sunday, allowing a more favourable viewing time for UK fans and a mid-day kick-off locally. Discussions were reportedly underway with the Football Associations of England and Mexico regarding this potential change.
However, local media later indicated that the Mexican FA expressed dissatisfaction with the proposal to alter the match time. Subsequently, just before midnight on Friday UK time, Sky Sports confirmed that the original kick-off time would remain.
FIFA is scheduled to meet with local organisers in Mexico to discuss potential disruptions relating to the anticipated weather conditions. FIFA sources told Sky Sports that no formal decision was ever made to change the match time.
Mexico enters the Round of 16 match against England with a strong home record at the Estadio Azteca, regarded as one of football’s most challenging venues. Since their first match there in 1966, Mexico has lost only twice in competitive fixtures at the stadium. Out of 89 matches, they have won 70 and drawn 17, underscoring their pronounced home advantage.
England face a significant challenge against hosts Mexico, with the strong local support and Mexico’s dominant history at the venue adding pressure to the knockout match scheduled for July 6 at 5:30 am IST.
Another difficulty for England will be coping with the stadium’s high altitude, approximately 7,220 feet (2,240 metres) above sea level. The thinner air reduces oxygen levels and causes the ball to travel faster and farther than at lower-altitude venues, such as Atlanta Stadium, where England played their Round of 32 match against DR Congo (312 metres above sea level).
England began their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia, followed by a goalless draw against Ghana and a 2-0 victory over Panama, advancing from the group stage.
In the Round of 32, England came from behind to defeat Congo DR 2-1 in a tense encounter, with captain Harry Kane scoring both goals. Congo DR took an early lead through Brian Cipenga’s goal in the 7th minute and maintained a disciplined defence and sharp counter-attacks through the first half, frustrating England despite their possession dominance.
After tactical adjustments at half-time, England equalised in the 75th minute before Kane secured the winner in the 86th minute, sealing a hard-fought victory and a place in the Round of 16 against Mexico.