FIFA officials were reportedly in talks to move England's World Cup last-16 game against Mexico six hours earlier, but the governing body has maintained that no decision was ever made to reschedule. Instead, a change in kick-off time was made due to severe weather conditions.
Adverse weather has already had a significant impact on two games at the World Cup this summer, with Mexico's win against Ecuador in the last-32 stage delayed due to thunderstorms around Azteca Stadium. Additionally, France's 3-0 win against Iraq was delayed by more than two hours due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in Philadelphia.
When asked about the proposed change to England's kick-off time against Mexico, England forward Marcus Rashford stated, "I think for us it's the same how we prepare for the game. It has to remain the same, we have to be focused, we have to be ready for anything." Rashford emphasized the team's ability to adapt to any situation, citing it as a strength of the group.
England midfielder Morgan Rogers echoed Rashford's sentiments, saying, "It's just another obstacle to overcome. We'll be ready regardless of the time. Earlier the better because you want to play, and getting that adrenaline out there will help us and get us going and playing." Rogers expressed confidence in the team's ability to handle any circumstances that come their way.
England are still at their training base in Kansas City and are due to travel to Mexico City later on Friday. Concerns have already been raised by England's players and staff about playing against Mexico at altitude, as Azteca Stadium is around 7,200ft above sea level. Mexico has played all four of their matches at high altitude, with three games at Azteca Stadium and the other in Guadalajara, which is around 5,000ft above sea level.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed concerns about playing at altitude, stating, "The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it. It just takes too much time. We have only three days in between these matches. It's physically just not possible to adapt to the altitude." Tuchel acknowledged that Mexico will have a significant advantage due to their familiarity with the high altitude.
England are also looking to keep the location of their team hotel in Mexico City a secret from the public due to concerns over disturbances from home supporters before the match. Ecuador, who were beaten by Mexico in the round of 32 on Wednesday, have submitted a complaint to FIFA this week after their players were kept awake by Mexico fans the night before the game.
