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Sports July 3, 2026

Mexico Protests Late Kick-Off for England World Cup Match, Citing Disruption to Viewing Experience

Mexico Protests Late Kick-Off for England World Cup Match, Citing Disruption to Viewing Experience

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre expressed his frustration over the last-minute change in kick-off time for their match against Ecuador in the World Cup.

Aguirre stated that the change feels like a 'kick in the stomach' and will force his team to revaluate their entire matchday plan.

The coach explained that the original 6pm kick-off was crucial for his players' recovery, as two of them were not fully fit and the extra six hours would have helped them prepare.

Mandatory on June 29, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Ian Robles/ Eyepix Group) Mexico v Ecuador Round of 32 Press Conference - FIFA World Cup 2026, Mexico City - 29 Jun 2026

Aguirre emphasized that the medical staff had been working to have the players ready for 6pm, not 12pm, and now he may have to take them out of the starting line-up.

The coach expressed his disappointment with the decision, saying that there is no advantage to playing at noon and that it throws a wrench into everything.

Aguirre acknowledged that FIFA is in charge and his team will have to comply with the decision, but he couldn't help feeling upset about the change.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - JUNE 30: General view inside the stadium as rain falls before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador at Mexico City Stadium on June 30, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. The match is delayed due to inclement weather. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The team's job is to go out there and win, but Aguirre feels that the change will make things more difficult for them.

The match against Ecuador is scheduled to take place at Azteca Stadium on Wednesday, and Aguirre's team will have to adjust their schedule accordingly.

The coach ended by stating that he would have preferred the original 6pm kick-off, as it would have given his team an advantage in their home stadium.

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