Due to tournament safety regulations, lightning strikes within 8 miles of the stadium will result in an automatic 30-minute delay. As a result of this, France’s group stage match against Iraq was suspended for more than an hour at halftime. Meanwhile, Mexico’s second match against Ecuador was postponed due to heavy rain.
It is hoped that kick-off time will be brought forward by six hours to avoid the worst of the weather and minimize potential delays.
The new schedule has not yet been finalized, but there are reports that FIFA is discussing changes to the original kick-off time.
The FA is thought to be concerned about the impact a change to kick-off time would have on fans and the logistics of Thomas Tuchel’s side.
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“I think that’s one of our strengths as a group. Everyone, including the players and the staff… are ready to meet whatever challenges are thrown at us. So obviously it’s not ideal, but it doesn’t really matter.”
England team-mate Morgan Rodgers added: “We’re going to accept the situation as it is, whatever it is, whatever the challenge is at hand, whatever the problems we face or other things that might be a bit difficult.”
“We’re just going to attack as hard as we can, be ready as a whole team, talk about what’s going to help us, what’s going to be difficult, and try to overcome it.”
Although England are said to have been furious about the change in dates, the move will benefit millions of viewers in the UK, who will no longer have to sacrifice their sleep to watch the match.
It will also welcome pub staff who were preparing for work until the original kick-off time of 5am on Monday morning.
