Mexico v England LIVE: Fifa backtrack on World Cup last-16 kick-off change amid storm threat | OneFootball

England’s preparations for their massive World Cup meeting with Mexico have been shaken up by uncertainty surrounding the kick-off time after Fifa backtracked on moving the match forward by six hours.

The country was bracing for an early morning 1am BST kick-off, with pubs in the United Kingdom allowed to stay open until the early hours - but in a late twist, kick-off looked set to be changed to 7pm BST on Sunday afternoon due to a storm threat in Mexico City. However, it’s now understood that Fifa have gone back on these plans with both England and Mexico’s federations irate.

England are in the last 16 after Harry Kane’s double saved Thomas Tuchel’s side – and perhaps the manager’s job – against DR Congo after falling behind early in Atlanta, but a far tougher test is to come.

The Mexico clash will provide a unique challenge with altitude and an anticipated hostile reception providing added factors for the England squad as they prepare for the Estadio Azteca – scene of Diego Maradona’s contrasting double in 1986. Declan Rice has been declared fully fit in a significant injury boost, while England are also plotting to avoid the impact of a boisterous set of Mexico supporters at their hotel.