England’s World Cup last-16 tie with Mexico will remain a 1am kick-off on Monday after confusion over a possible time move.
Thunderstorms and bad weather are forecast to hit Mexico City around the time of kick-off.
That led to the emergence of reports around 8pm Friday night UK time that FIFA were considering bringing the game forward by six hours and were in discussions with the English and Mexican FAs.
The new proposed kick-off time would have been 7pm UK time on Sunday – midday local time.
That would have been a far more favourable kick-off time for England supporters watching from home but it would have added complications to both teams preparing for the match and also to supporters attending the Azteca Stadium.
Later on Friday evening, the direction of travel changed again, with local journalists reporting the Mexican FA was unhappy with the possibility of kick-off moving.
Just before midnight on Friday UK time, Sky Sports News were able to confirm the original kick-off time would remain; however, FIFA will continue to monitor the situation, in particular any changes in the weather.
FIFA sources have told Sky Sports News that no decision was ever taken to move the game.
England will face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City
Thomas Tuchel’s side flew to Mexico on Friday and took off uncertain of what the resolution would be.
Speaking after a training session earlier in the day, England midfielder Morgan Rogers said: “We’ll be ready regardless of the time.” However, he added: “Earlier the better because you want to play.”
His team-mate Marcus Rashford, said: “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.”
The kick-off time remains less than ideal for England supporters back in the UK. After beating DR Congo in the previous round, Tuchel was asked what his message would be for parents of children who would want to watch the game.
He said: “Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. Come on. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match on and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.”
On Thursday, the UK government announced pubs and bars would be able to stay open until 5am on Monday so England supporters could watch the knockout tie against the co-hosts. The government used legislative powers to extend licensing hours on the basis that Mexico vs England is an event of “exceptional national significance”.
