Ahead of England's critical World Cup match against Mexico, partners of the national team, often referred to as WAGs (wives and girlfriends), have displayed their support through custom-designed attire and personal endorsements.
Katie Kane, wife of England captain Harry Kane, shared images on Instagram showcasing her team spirit. She was pictured in a custom white halter-neck football shirt designed by Hugo Boss, emblazoned with her husband's surname in red. Kane also wore a navy bomber jacket featuring the Three Lions logo. The post, made around 12 p.m. UK time, preceded the highly anticipated match.
Megan Pickford, wife of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, has reportedly taken on a prominent role among the WAGs, described as a 'mother hen.' She has also made notable fashion choices to support the team. For a previous match in Dallas, she wore a cowboy hat, a white vest, designer jeans, Gucci sunglasses, and a Lady Dior handbag, adhering to stadium bag size regulations. Megan, who was ten during the 2006 World Cup, has embraced the WAG persona, with sources noting her pride in her husband and the role.
Other WAGs have also been actively promoting their involvement and personal brand deals. Ashlyn Castro was seen in a white crop top and denim shorts, promoting a hydration powder brand. Earlier, Ellie Watkins, wife of Ollie Watkins, shared a TikTok video promoting a makeup brand.
The England versus Mexico match faced a delayed kick-off due to a thunderstorm in Mexico City. Initially, FIFA considered moving the game forward by six hours to avoid potential weather disruptions, proposing a midday local time start, which would have been 7 p.m. UK time. Both the FA and the Mexican Football Association reportedly reacted negatively to these proposals, citing concerns about player preparation and other fixture impacts. Ultimately, the attempt to reschedule was blocked by various logistical barriers, including opposition from officials managing games in New Jersey.
The match is a significant fixture for England, with the team having narrowly avoided an early exit in a previous round. Playing at the Azteca Stadium presents a challenge due to the high altitude, where Mexico boasts a strong historical record. The forecast for thunderstorms also posed a potential risk for further delays, as matches are suspended if lightning occurs within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.
Victory against Mexico would advance England to a quarter-final match against either Brazil or Norway. England has a mixed historical record at the Azteca, with a draw in 1969 and a loss in 1985 in their previous encounters with Mexico at the venue.