Mexico's World Cup dream is about to take a seismic shift – and it's all down to a potential last-gasp kick-off time change against England. Boss Javier Aguirre has blasted Fifa for failing to consult him over plans to move the Estadio Azteca showdown from its original 6pm slot, calling the proposed change a 'kick in the stomach'.
Aguirre was adamant that the 1am BST start time was 'perfectly fine' for his side, but now faces a logistical nightmare if Fifa pushes ahead with the unconfirmed reports of an earlier start. The usually composed manager revealed that such a change would decimate his team's meticulously planned schedule, saying: "We've performed very well at 6pm, and to lose six hours of preparation time is a massive blow." He added: "Nobody asked me about it – it's as simple as that."
The usually calm Aguirre was clear in his disdain for the potential change, highlighting that Mexico has not played at midday in over four decades. "Noon is not our cup of tea," he quipped. "We're a team that thrives on routine – and an early kick-off would turn everything on its head."
Mexico's impressive tournament run, which has seen them win all four matches without conceding a single goal, will be put to the test in the altitude-sapped Estadio Azteca. England faces its own challenges, with Aguirre dismissing any notion that an earlier kick-off would give his side an advantage: "I don't see any benefit – none whatsoever."
The uncertainty surrounding the kick-off time has thrown a spanner into the works for both teams' preparations. As of late Friday night, no official confirmation had been issued by Fifa regarding the change. One thing is certain, though – Mexico's planning will be put through the wringer if an earlier start is confirmed.