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Sources: FIFA is considering changing the kickoff times for Mexico-England, Brazil-Norway and Mexico-England.

Sources: FIFA is considering changing the kickoff times for Mexico-England, Brazil-Norway and Mexico-England.
Sources: FIFA is considering changing the kickoff times for Mexico-England, Brazil-Norway and Mexico-England.

FIFA may change the kickoff time of two World Cup matches on Sunday due to severe weather in Mexico City, which includes a 'risk of flooding', that threatens to disrupt the schedule.

One source stated that the weather forecast could cause the Estadio Azteca match between Mexico and England to be moved forward.

Mexican media reported the match will start at noon local time, instead of its original 6 p.m. (0000 GMT) scheduled start.

Another source stated that any change in the fixture would affect Brazil's match with Norway in New York. The match is currently scheduled to begin at?4 pm local time (2000 GMT).

The Brazilian Football Confederation's (CBF) spokesperson said the match between the five-times champions of the world could be "delayed" by one hour.

FIFA didn't confirm immediately the Mexican media reports after being contacted by.

Rain delayed Mexico's match against Ecuador in the last 32 earlier this week.

The conditions of the game could change if the proposed changes to the Mexico-England match are confirmed. The teams may not be able to enjoy the relative cooler temperatures of a night kick-off but instead face the hottest sun and hottest temperatures of the day.

The forecast for Sunday is for temperatures between?23 and 25 degrees Celsius in the midday hours, with a high UV Index. This is despite the fact that the altitude of the capital keeps it cooler than other World Cup venues.

A NEW PHYSICAL CHALLENGE

A stadium at 2,200 meters in altitude would require a start earlier, which would increase the physical importance of energy management.

The thinner air can reduce oxygen availability and accelerate fatigue, making it more difficult to perform high-intensity runs for athletes who have not been acclimatised.

Mexico, which has played three of its four 2026 World Cup games at the Azteca?sofar, and is accustomed to training and living at altitude, may benefit from this switch.

Thomas Tuchel, England's manager, has acknowledged that the hosts have "a huge edge" and said his team does not have time to adapt physically before the knockout match.

When asked about reports of a time-change, England forward Marcus Rashford replied that the team will be prepared for whatever the circumstances.

He told reporters in Kansas, "I think it's the exact same for us, you know how we prepare for games." It must remain the same. We have to remain focused and ready to face anything. I believe this is a strength of the team and all the staff, as well as the players.

"We are ready to face any challenges that come our way, so... obviously, it is not ideal but also,?it does not matter."

Morgan Rogers, England's midfielder, added: "I don't believe it affects us. I believe we'll be ready regardless of time. The earlier the better because you want to enjoy it.

We'll be prepared for whatever time comes. (Writing and reporting by Ossian Shines; additional reporting by Mexico City Bureau; editing by Ken Ferris, Daina Beth Solon, and Ken Ferris)

(source: Reuters)