Pubs across England will be allowed to stay open until 5am on Monday after Keir Starmer intervened to let fans watch the 1am World Cup last-16 kick-off against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. The match, which could run until 3am or later if it goes to penalties, has left supporters devising ways to manage an extreme Monday morning with “very little sleep, a lot of tension and possibly the ultimate World Cup hangover”.
England’s nerve-wracking route through the 2026 tournament saw them scrape past DR Congo on Wednesday thanks to two late goals from captain Harry Kane, setting up the meeting with the co-hosts. But former Three Lions forward Wayne Rooney said there remain “big concerns” for manager Thomas Tuchel to fix, with the right‑back spot and wide forward positions both up for debate.
“Pubs can stay open until 5am as England face Mexico in the World Cup last-16 at 1am Monday.”
“Can Djed Spence be trusted at full‑back? Did Anthony Gordon do enough to oust Marcus Rashford from the starting line‑up with two assists? Do England risk Bukayo Saka’s fitness?” These are the questions circling as fans select and share their preferred line‑ups for the match at Mexico City’s legendary Temple of Football.
The match, kicking off at 1am UK time on Monday, will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer, with radio coverage on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. The window for alcohol sales in pubs was extended specifically for this early‑morning clash, allowing fans to gather and watch together despite the unsocial hour.
How will you be watching?