Keir Starmer intervened to prevent FIFA from rescheduling the kick-off at the Estadio Azteca, as it could potentially favor Mexico over England in the World Cup. The UK Government, acting diplomatically, opposed moving the match time from 1am to 7pm BST to allow Thomas Tuchel’s team more time to adjust to the high altitude. Starmer took action after the Football Association raised concerns with Downing Street before the game.
England faced challenges like hostility, altitude, and a red card to Jarell Quansah but managed to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory against Mexico, setting up a quarter-final clash with Norway. Due to the risk of lightning, the game started later than planned, at 2am UK time.
Starmer also enacted emergency legislation to extend pub opening hours for the Round of 16 match. The win against Mexico boosted Tuchel’s confidence in England’s World Cup chances, although he expressed worries about potential officiating issues.
Viewers who stayed up to watch the delayed match witnessed an inspiring performance by England at the Estadio Azteca. Despite the obstacles, including the red card, England triumphed 3-2 against Mexico, with standout performances from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
The team with 10 players will face Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami on Saturday, moving closer to potentially emulating the success of Sir Alf Ramsey’s 1966 squad.