England's preparations for their World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico have faced challenges, including potential delays due to thunderstorms and playing at high altitude in the host nation's capital.
Weather forecasts indicate a 90 percent chance of thunderstorms around the scheduled 1 a.m. British time kickoff on Monday. FIFA regulations stipulate a 30-minute delay in the event of lightning near the stadium, suggesting a disruption is likely. The England team also experienced a lengthy period of wrangling with FIFA regarding the match schedule and faced a noisy reception upon arrival.
Despite these obstacles, England fans have displayed defiant optimism. Supporters arriving in Mexico City expressed excitement for the "dream game" against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, a venue where the hosts have a strong historical record, having lost only two of 89 matches. Fans cited the significance of the match and the anticipated atmosphere as reasons for their positive outlook.
The England camp shares this optimistic sentiment. Captain Harry Kane, who has scored five goals in the tournament, emphasized the team's focus on "writing our own history" and seizing the opportunity for a special achievement in a "special stadium away from home."
Back in England, an estimated 13 million people are expected to stay up to watch the match. Approximately 6,000 pubs are extending their hours until 5 a.m. following a government decision, with an estimated 38 million pints expected to be consumed. Pub chains like Greene King are among those opening late.
The upcoming match has led to a surge in last-minute leave requests and concerns about employees calling in sick on Monday. Some schools are adapting to the situation, with institutions like Berwick Hills Primary School in Middlesbrough and Greenland Community Primary School in County Durham allowing later arrival times for pupils, prioritizing rest and readiness to learn over immediate attendance.