England’s World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium is mired in uncertainty after Mexican authorities issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the first half of the match, prompting fears of a suspension and a possible change to the kick-off time.
The match – originally scheduled for 1am BST on Monday 6 July – could now be brought forward to 7pm BST on Sunday, according to reports in Mexico, as a bid to dodge the expected lightning and downpour. England fans waiting for the late-night showdown face a nervous wait while officials monitor the weather.
“Thunderstorm warning threatens England's World Cup last-16 tie vs Mexico, with kick-off possibly moved from 1am to 7pm BST.”
Thomas Tuchel’s side, yet to hit the heights expected of them pre-tournament, must now also contend with the prospect of a disrupted game in one of football’s great theatres. The Azteca Stadium is a fortress for the co-hosts, who have reeled off four consecutive wins and are riding a wave of euphoria that has swept Mexico City. Javier Aguirre’s men have not lost at this venue in 13 years, and the passionate home crowd, combined with the altitude, will test England’s resolve.
Tuchel has his own selection headaches. Right‑back remains his primary area of concern: Reece James and Jarrel Quansah are both fighting for fitness, while Djed Spence, who struggled throughout the DR Congo game, could continue if they are unavailable. Declan Rice will play despite what Tuchel described as “terrible” neural pain.
Aguirre has no major injury worries, though star winger Julian Quinones is managing a knock. His probable XI includes Rangel in goal, a back four of Sánchez, Montes, Vásquez and Gallardo, a midfield trio of Mora, Lira and Romo, and an attacking line of Alvarado, Jiménez and Quinones.
England’s likely lineup features Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
Whoever advances will face Brazil or Norway in a quarter‑final scheduled for Saturday 11 July in Miami at 10pm BST. For now, however, the focus is on the weather. Despite the delay fears, organisers have confirmed the half-time show will go ahead as planned. The match will be broadcast live on BBC1, with coverage beginning at 12am BST, and streamed on BBC iPlayer.