The International Football Federation (FIFA) is analyzing the possibility of postponing the start of the Brazilian team’s match against Norway, scheduled for next Sunday, by one hour. The preventive measure arises as a result of adverse weather conditions that affected another important match in the competition.
The main reason for this potential change is linked to the game between Mexico and England. The intense weather situation predicted for this match, which could lead to a time change, would have a domino effect on the schedule of other disputes, including Brazil’s duel.
As a result, the Brazilian team is expected to enter the field at 6pm (Brasília time), corresponding to 5pm local time. Originally, the kickoff was scheduled for 5pm Brasília, at 4pm local time.
Although the final decision is still in the process of internal discussion at FIFA, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is already preparing for the likely modification, adapting to the hypothesis of a later game.
Climatic impact on the duel between Mexico and England
The central issue lies in Mexico City, the stage where Mexico and England will compete for a crucial place in the quarter-finals. The clash had been scheduled for 9pm local time (7pm in Brazil), but could be brought forward to 2pm in Brazil (noon in Mexico).
The anticipation of this game is justified by the forecast of a strong storm with thunderstorms and the risk of flooding in the region, which would make it unfeasible to hold the match at the initially stipulated time.
The change in Mexico’s calendar, in turn, would force Brazil’s game time to be modified to avoid overlap. FIFA policy prohibits World Cup games from taking place simultaneously, thus ensuring that there is an adequate interval, including for possible extra time and penalty kicks. The entity may even consider an even longer postponement to ensure full safety.
Weather also affects New Jersey
In New Jersey, where the Brazilian team will play, there is also a risk of storms and intense heat, with temperatures that can reach 39 degrees Celsius. However, local weather conditions are not the decisive factor in the potential time change for Brazil’s game, but rather the need to adjust the global competition schedule.
On Sunday, although the heat is expected to subside, the city will face a risk of storms similar to what occurred in the game between France and Iraq, in Philadelphia, a location neighboring Brazil’s game area this weekend.
FIFA prepares for decision on schedules
The expectation is that FIFA will announce an official resolution on the new schedule for the round of 16 games in the next few hours. The football community awaits confirmation to adapt to the new dates and times of important clashes.
