Millions of England fans stayed awake through the early hours of the morning to watch their team secure a 3-2 victory against Mexico in the World Cup, a match that concluded shortly after 4 a.m. BST. The extended celebrations saw fans embracing, setting off fireworks, and dancing in fan zones and pubs across the nation.
The decision for many to stay up was prompted by the match's late kick-off time, scheduled for 1 a.m. BST and further delayed by an hour due to adverse weather. This led to a national debate about whether children should be allowed to miss school the following day. The Secretary of State for Education emphasized expectations for children to attend school, though some schools reportedly allowed a later start.
Extended Licensing and Fan Reactions
In response to the late-night viewing, outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer approved an extension to licensing laws, allowing pubs and bars to remain open. While police chiefs expressed concerns about the late announcement, many establishments, including over 600 Greene King pubs and more than 400 Marston's sites, extended their operating hours. This decision was met with widespread public approval, with many fans expressing gratitude for the opportunity to watch the match in public venues.
Despite the nation's collective decision to stay up, some areas initially saw quiet anticipation. In London's Kirby Estate, residents adopted a strategy of having children sleep before waking them for the match. However, as kick-off approached, the mood shifted.
For fans of the opposing team, the atmosphere was equally fervent. At the Mestizo Restaurant and Tequila Bar in north London, approximately 500 Mexican fans gathered, creating a party atmosphere with food, music, and dancing well before the match began. Manager Carlos Alvarado described it as "the spot" for Mexicans to celebrate.
A Nail-Biting Match and Emotional Aftermath
The delayed start meant many fans, like Josie in a central London pub, had to adjust their sleep schedules. She noted that pubs were open until 5 a.m., with some patrons admitting they would have gone home earlier if not for the extended hours. The extended duration of the game, coupled with its close nature, led to intense emotional responses from supporters.
As the match progressed, crucial moments, including Jude Bellingham's opening goal and a vital defensive play by Dan Burn, elicited eruptions of cheers and gasps from the crowds. The final whistle brought a mix of relief and elation for England fans. Former England striker Alan Shearer described the victory as "one of England's greatest performances."
The aftermath saw scenes of jubilation, with fans celebrating in streets and pubs. However, for Mexican supporters, the defeat was a source of deep disappointment. Some fans expressed their heartbreak, with one stating it felt "like my dog has died." Others faced the immediate challenge of returning to work after the all-night vigil, with some admitting to calling in sick.
The victory at the Azteca Stadium, a venue with historical significance for England's World Cup encounters, was seen by many as a cathartic moment, burying past disappointments. As fans dispersed in the early morning light, the shared experience of staying up for the late-night match became a memorable event for millions.