'Like a Kick in the Stomach': Mexico coach Javier Aguirre Livid with rescheduling of Round of 16 Clash

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre is not at all amused with the rescheduling of the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against England.

Although yet to be officially confirmed, Mexico vs England match is set to be rescheduled as FIFA is contemplating a new time for the encounter at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday (July 5).

Originally slated for 6 PM local time, the match is set to be played at 12 PM on the same day to avoid any potential weather-related delays. The Round of 32 clash in Mexico City between Mexico and Ecuador was delayed for an hour due to thunderstorms, and on Sunday afternoon, the weather is predicted to be the same.

In that regard, the match is likely to be played six hours earlier than originally scheduled. England are not happy with the decision, and now Mexico's head coach Javier Aguirre has vented his frustration on the abrupt change.

"It is like a kick in the stomach. Because, of course, you change everything. Now you have to change everything, the plan, all the work. Not that it goes to waste, but almost, because you're swallowing six hours that you have scheduled. So, yes, I don't like anything. Obviously, we'll accept whatever FIFA says. But I don't like anything, especially my players," Aguirre said Mexican outlet Lopez Doriga on Friday.

The Mexican has pointed out a whole lot of changes in their preparation, from food to sleep and physiotherapy, as the new time has now caused a huge inconvenience. When asked if FIFA contacted the Mexican camp before deciding on the time, the coach gave a blunt answer.

"No, they didn't contact. I was perfectly happy with the 6 PM kickoff. In fact, we played very well at that time. It's a schedule I really enjoy. The other day, of course, the rain affected things, but even then, we played very well. I love playing in the afternoon and late in the evening. We perform well, we run well, we fight hard, and there's a great connection with the fans. A 12 PM kickoff, however, is not something we're used to," Aguirre added.

The Mexicans are in excellent form in this World Cup, winning all of their first four matches in the competition. They also won their first World Cup knockout match in 40 years, and will now be hoping to advance to the quarterfinals against a tricky England side.