England fans have vowed to wait as long as it takes to see the Three Lions take on Mexico in the World Cup after kick-off was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms.
Supporters have packed out pubs and bars after the Government said they could stay open until 5am on Monday to show the game.
But Fifa delayed kick-off until 2am UK time after hours of thunderstorms in Mexico City on Sunday.
It comes after the World Cup organiser decided against moving the game forward by six hours to avoid disruption from the storms, which had been forecast days in advance.
At about 9.30pm UK time (2.30pm in Mexico), heavy rain greeted England and Mexico fans outside the Estadio Azteca, with loud rumbles of thunder coming and going in the hours before kick-off.
Thunder continued to crack in the skies above the stadium leading to Fifa making the decision to delay the game over the risk of lightning.
The big screens inside the stadium displayed signs warning people that an electrical storm was approaching and to remain in their seats although people ran for cover when the heavens opened.
A Fifa statement said: “Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the Fifa World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 1900 local time (2100 EDT).
“The safety and security of all individuals is Fifa’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”
Fans watching at BOXPark Wembley in north-west London said they would stay through the night no matter the delay.
Kieran, 23, a finance assistant from Essex, told the Press Association: “I think it’s annoying for England fans here but it’s probably beneficial for the England team.
“I will stay the whole time even if it’s delayed,” he added.
Killey Harvey, a charity worker from west London, also said he will wait, despite having work at 10am on Monday.
The 49-year-old told PA: “It (the game) should have been earlier. The police are not happy with it because it causes extra trouble.”
He added: “I will stay because I want to see them play. I’m here to enjoy the match.”
Asked if he is worried he will be too tired to work, Mr Harvey said: “I do not care, this is my choice.”
Play cannot begin until 30 minutes has passed since lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius.
Mexico’s last-32 match with Ecuador on Wednesday was delayed by an hour after thunderstorms struck ahead of kick-off.
Lightning is not the only hazard which could strike the Three Lions’ World Cup hopes – co-hosts Mexico have lost only two of their 89 competitive games at the Estadio Azteca, which lies more than 2,200 metres above sea level.
An England win would set up a quarter-final tie with Norway following their 2-1 victory over Brazil on Sunday.
