Brazil vs Norway & Mexico vs England kick-off times unchanged despite weather concerns at FIFA World Cup 2026
(Courtesy : Getty)
FIFA held discussions to reschedule both matches due to adverse weather conditions.
The Brazil vs Norway and Mexico vs England Round of 16 fixtures in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 will not have their kick-off times rescheduled despite concerns about the weather conditions, the global football governing body confirmed.
Brazil’s clash against Norway will take place at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, at 1:30 AM IST on July 6. England’s clash against co-hosts Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will kick off at 5:30 AM IST on the same day.
Both the Selecao and the Three Lions are looking to reach the quarter-finals of the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America, while El Tri and the Vikings are looking to upset the apple cart and continue their deep run in the tournament.
Also Read: Ismael Saibari: List of all goals in FIFA World Cup history
Why did FIFA not reschedule the matches?
According to media reports, FIFA considered rescheduling the Mexico vs England match to 12:00 PM local time, six hours earlier than the planned kick-off time. This change was being considered due to weather forecasts predicting heavy thunderstorms and rain at match time in Mexico City.
An earlier kick-off would have allowed the match to be played before the worst phase of the thunderstorms hit. As a result, the organisers reportedly held multiple meetings with the Mexican and English football federations to find a solution.
However, within hours, FIFA made a U-turn on its plans, ultimately deciding to keep the match timings as is. This was reportedly done after taking into consideration the travel and preparation for both teams. There were also concerns that the travelling England fans would have their plans disrupted by the rescheduling.
The weather forecast shows that storms are a distinct possibility in the Mexican capital during match time. As a result, matches can be delayed, possibly until late at night. This has led to local authorities and the English FA working to solidify the safety and security of the fans, following the deaths of four people during celebrations after Mexico’s win over Ecuador.
Were Brazil vs Norway and Mexico vs England match timings changed?
No. FIFA confirmed that both matches will go ahead at their original scheduled times despite weather concerns.
When is Brazil vs Norway FIFA World Cup 2026 match?
The match will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with kick‑off at 1:30 AM IST on July 6.
When is Mexico vs England FIFA World Cup 2026 match?
The match will be played at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with kick‑off at 5:30 AM IST on July 6.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.