MEXICO CITY — The World Cup round of 16 match between Mexico and England on Sunday could be moved to an earlier kickoff due to concerns about an afternoon thunderstorm forecast in Mexico City.
FIFA is looking at the possibility of starting the game earlier than the scheduled 6 p.m. local time Sunday (8 p.m. ET) at Azteca Stadium.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because no final decision has been made.
Among the concerns for FIFA is the possible disruption caused by flooding.
The game will be Mexico City’s fifth and final match of the World Cup.
Under FIFA’s safety protocols, play must be suspended for at least 30 minutes if lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium. Mexico’s previous match against Ecuador was delayed by an hour because of severe weather, prompting tournament officials to make the schedule change.
England advanced to the knockout stage with a 2-1 win over DR Congo, while host nation Mexico earned its place with a 2-0 victory over Ecuador.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has acknowledged the challenge of playing at Estadio Azteca, which sits approximately 2,240 metres above sea level, calling the altitude a significant advantage for Mexico.
England will also have to contend with a hostile atmosphere off the field. Mexican supporters gathered outside Ecuador’s team hotel on the eve of the round-of-16 match, setting off fireworks, beating drums and sounding car horns throughout the night in an apparent attempt to disrupt the team’s sleep.
According to multiple reports, Mexican authorities established a security roadblock around England’s hotel ahead of the match to prevent supporters from gathering outside the team base and repeating the disturbances that Ecuador experienced. Ecuador later filed a complaint with FIFA over the incident.
The winner of Sunday’s match will advance to the quarterfinals of the World Cup.