Currently, there are no indications that the kick-off will be postponed. However, play cannot commence until at least 30 minutes have passed since lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius.
Samuel Dodson humorously notes, “Perhaps the Carpenters had it right when they wrote Rainy Days and Mondays,” referencing the match’s scheduled start time, which typically marks the beginning of the working week in the UK. He adds, “given the scheduled start time of this match is supposed to be the way those of us in the UK kick off the working week – but all this talk of thunder and lightning is, to quote Queen, very very frightening. What are the chances this storm pulls a Barbra Streisand and rains on our parades and postpones the match? “And if it is postponed, what advice do you have for those brave enough to venture to the pub in the early hours who may be faced twiddling their thumbs – other than, of course, brainstorming inevitable weather-based football pun headlines? (Although here’s hoping a Hurri-kane force blows this Mexico team away).”
In the event of a delay, Dodson poses a question to those daring enough to visit the pub in the early hours.
“I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more.”
Pubs are permitted to remain open only until 5 AM BST, meaning a delayed kick-off could result in patrons being ushered out just as extra time begins.
In other news, Carlos Queiroz has resigned as the head coach of Ghana. The announcement came after Ghana’s exit from the World Cup at the last-32 stage, a disappointing outcome for fans who favor defensive tactics. Queiroz, who previously managed Iran in the last World Cup, stated, “The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch.”
He encouraged Ghana to look ahead, asserting, “Reaching a higher level should never be the destination – it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions. “Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent.” The former coach of Real Madrid and Manchester United emphasized, “Reaching a higher level should never be the destination – it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions.”
Queiroz was appointed in April after Otto Addo’s dismissal.
Meanwhile, in the ongoing World Cup matches, chances, including a penalty, are going unconverted, with no goals scored. Tom Lutz is overseeing the Brazil versus Norway match.
Jarell Quansah is anticipated to start as England’s right-back following his recovery from a twisted ankle. Djed Spence, experiencing calf discomfort, isn’t ready to begin but is expected to be included in the squad. Reece James has missed the last two matches due to a hamstring injury. Right-back remains a significant concern for Thomas Tuchel, who has other positional challenges as well. Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon are likely to be the chosen wingers this time around.
Greetings to all, whether it’s evening, afternoon, or morning. This is the crucial match for England thus far. Unfortunately, I must inform you about reports of thunderstorms in the Mexico City area. Our correspondent David Hytner provides the following update:
“The first incredibly loud claps of thunder were heard here at the Azteca at 2:40 PM local time—just over three hours before the scheduled kick-off at 6 PM. It is now absolutely pouring rain. This was well-forecasted; hence, the chaotic discussions on Friday about moving the kick-off forward by six hours, which ultimately proved unfeasible. Journalists and photographers have just been instructed to remain indoors at the stadium media center. Perhaps it’s fortunate that the storm commenced slightly earlier than expected, allowing more time for it to clear before 6 PM. Then again, I really do not know whether this is true!”
