Mexico and England will go head-to-head inside the iconic Estadio Azteca in a mouth-watering World Cup 2026 last 16 match.
The build-up to what was already a fascinating game has been dominated by two particular narratives, neither of which are to do with the sport itself.
FIFA have reverted to the original kick-off time of 1am BST… what are your thoughts on this debacle? 🤯
Have your plans been messed around?
Indeed, a lot has been made about the altitude at which the game will be played. The venue – known as the Mexico City Stadium during the World Cup due to branding reasons – sits at over 2,200m (7,220ft) above sea level.
The weather in Mexico City on Sunday night is also a big factor in what might happen. After all, FIFA considered moving the Mexico vs England kick-off time due to the threat of storms.
While that did not happen in the end, adverse weather conditions could still be an issue.
Thunderstorms could form close to kick-off ahead of Mexico vs England
Simon King, who is the lead weather presenter for BBC Weather, has been speaking to BBC Sport ahead of kick-off in the Mexican capital.
“The heat won’t be a problem with temperatures around 17 to 20C, but heavy showers will develop through the afternoon in Mexico City,” he said.
“There’s the possibility of some scattered thunderstorms forming by late afternoon and early evening in the area, close to kick-off.
“But while there could be a delay or a pause to the match at the start, the shower and thunderstorm risk diminishes as the evening and match goes on.”
He believes the temperature itself will not be a problem for England against Mexico, given forecasts indicate it will be around 17 to 20C (62.6 to 68F) around the time of kick-off.
The looming threat of storms near the stadium, however, could yet impact the kick-off time. King suggests that they could have an impact initially, but that the threat of them reduce as both the evening and the match itself go on.
There are strict regulations in place when there is a storm near a stadium. If there is a lightning strike within eight miles of the venue, the match will be paused.
There will then be a 30-minute countdown until the match is resumed. If there is a lightning strike within that time, then that counter resets to zero.
Read more:
What is ‘The Hand of God’? Diego Maradona World Cup goal explained as England return to the Azteca
How England were ‘welcomed’ at hotel ahead of hostile World Cup clash with Mexico
What would happen if Mexico vs England is abandoned due to lightning storms?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
