FIFA is continuing discussions over a revised kick-off time for the England versus Mexico clash at the 2026 World Cup, following warnings of severe weather conditions.

Mexico’s head coach Javier Aguirre appeared to confirm that the fixture’s start time has been altered, revealing that the late decision has left him feeling “angry”.

The Round of 16 tie between England and Mexico had originally been scheduled for a 6pm local start on Sunday at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, which corresponds to 1am BST on Monday morning in the United Kingdom.

However, forecasts of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall have forced organisers to shift the match to a 12 noon local kick-off, equivalent to 7pm BST in the UK.

Speaking to Spanish-Mexican journalist Joaquin Lopez Doriga on Radio Formula, Aguirre said: “That’s right, it’s like a punch to the stomach, it changes everything, the plan. It’s not completely ruined, but almost, because you have to swallow six hours of scheduled training.”

He continued: “Obviously, we will follow whatever FIFA decides. I don’t like it at all, and neither do my players. Of course, the meals, naps, rest, physiotherapy — everything, everything — it may seem minor, but it’s not.”

The Mexican coach added: “Today, around 60 people are working here so that these 26 players can go out on Sunday and win the game. It’s not a small matter; the change is quite significant. I can understand the reasons and arguments, but they didn’t consult me, and yes, I’m quite upset.”

When asked whether the schedule alteration might favour hosts Mexico at the Azteca, Aguirre firmly dismissed the notion: “Not at all, zero, none, no advantage whatsoever.”

He further explained: “On the contrary, I’ll tell you this — ever since that day in Ecuador we talked, we knew the schedule, we knew the venue. We didn’t know the opponent, that’s true, but in the end, yes, they’ve made things a bit harder for us. Still, we have no option but to respect FIFA’s decision.”