ATLANTA, Georgia, United States (US): Coach Thomas Tuchel called for families to put football before school when England play Mexico in the World Cup last 16 in the early hours of Monday (English time), PA Media/dpa reported.
Victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wednesday set up a meeting with co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City that will kick off at 1:00 am UK time (0000 GMT), likely affecting the size of the television audience able to watch.
In the past, it has been common for schools and employers to allow England matches in the latter stages of major tournaments to be shown when they clash with working hours, but Monday’s kick-off in the small hours poses a unique obstacle.
“Write an excuse for school and let them watch football,” Tuchel pleaded after Harry Kane’s two late goals saw England squeeze through the round of 32 in Atlanta.
“Come on. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.”
England were facing one of their most humiliating World Cup exits having fallen behind in the seventh minute to a goal from Brian Cipenga, who plays in Spain’s second division.
They were saved by a remarkable late double from Kane whose goals set up a difficult meeting at altitude with the co-hosts in the Azteca Stadium. – BERNAMA-PA MEDIA/dpa
