Rain easing off in Mexico
3.38pm local time/10.38 BST, 5.38pm ET: The rain has significantly lessened. There is still some thunder audible, but conditions appear to be improving. (Please note the usual disclaimer).
Today’s other notable development: while many noted Donald Trump’s absence from the tournament, the weather remains the primary concern.
Currently, there are no indications that the kick-off will be postponed, although play cannot commence until 30 minutes have elapsed since lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius.
“Perhaps the Carpenters had it right when they wrote Rainy Days and Mondays,” writes Samuel Dodson, “given the scheduled start time of this match is supposed to be the way those of us in the UK kick off the working week – but all this talk of thunder and lightning is, to quote Queen, very very frightening. What are the chances this storm pulls a Barbra Streisand and rains on our parades and postpones the match?
“And if it is postponed, what advice do you have for those brave enough to venture to the pub in the early hours who may be faced twiddling their thumbs – other than, of course, brainstorming inevitable weather-based football pun headlines? (Although here’s hoping a Hurri-kane force blows this team away).”
Pubs are legally allowed to remain open only until 5am BST, so a delayed kick-off could result in patrons being asked to leave just as extra time begins.
Queiroz resigns as Ghana head coach
In other news, Carlos Queiroz has announced his resignation as Ghana’s head coach following their elimination at the last-32 stage of the tournament, according to AFP.
“I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more,” Queiroz stated.
He encouraged Ghana to advance in the future, saying: “The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch.”
“Reaching a higher level should never be the destination – it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions.
“Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent.”
Queiroz, who previously coached Iran at the last World Cup in Qatar, was appointed in April after Otto Addo was dismissed.
Elsewhere in the World Cup, chances including a penalty are being missed, and no goals have been scored so far. Tom Lutz is covering the Brazil versus Norway match.
England team latest
Jarell Quansah is expected to start at right-back for England after recovering from a twisted ankle. Djed Spence is dealing with a sore calf and is not expected to start but should be included in the squad. Reece James has missed the last two matches due to a hamstring injury.
Right-back remains a key concern for Thomas Tuchel, who also faces challenges in other positions. The selection of wingers is uncertain as none of the wide players have fully impressed. This time, Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon are anticipated to be chosen.
Stormy preamble
Greetings to all. This is the major match so far. Unfortunately, reports indicate thunderstorms in the Mexico City area. Our correspondent on site, David Hytner, reports:
“The first incredibly loud claps of thunder were heard here at the Azteca at 2:40pm local time – a little over three hours before the scheduled kick-off at 6pm. It is now raining heavily. This was largely forecast, which explains the earlier discussions on Friday afternoon about moving the kick-off forward by six hours, a change that ultimately proved impossible. Journalists and photographers have been instructed to remain indoors at the stadium media centre. Perhaps it is fortunate the storm began slightly earlier than expected, allowing more time for it to clear before 6pm. Then again, I really do not know whether this is true!”
