Mexico Coach Aguirre Furious Over Potential World Cup Match Schedule Change

Mexico’s national team coach, Javier Aguirre, has voiced significant frustration over a potential schedule change for their upcoming World Cup Round of 16 match against England. FIFA is reportedly considering moving the kickoff time forward by six hours due to anticipated thunderstorms.

Aguirre described the proposed alteration as a “slap in the face” and a major disruption to the team’s meticulously planned strategy. He conveyed his strong disapproval in an interview with Radio Fórmula.

Por que importa

“This change feels like a slap in the face,” Aguirre stated. “Now we have to replan everything. It’s not that all our work has been for nothing, but it comes close to it, because we lose six hours that were part of our entire game plan.”

He emphasized that there is no advantage to playing at 12:00 PM local time and that the change would significantly disrupt their preparations.

“I don’t like it at all,” he continued. “Of course, we will adhere to whatever FIFA decides, but I am not happy about it, and neither are the players. There is absolutely no single advantage to playing at 12:00 PM (local time). None at all. It really throws a spanner in the works.”

Despite his anger, Aguirre acknowledged FIFA’s ultimate authority in the matter. “FIFA is in charge, so we will just have to live with it. But if someone asked me, I would say: keep the kickoff at 6:00 PM.”

Aguirre elaborated on why the potential change is so problematic. “It is a significant change. I can understand there might be reasons for it, but nobody consulted me, and yes, I am pretty angry about it. Ultimately, it is our job to go onto the field and win.”

Currently, the match is scheduled to proceed at its original time, kicking off at midnight between Sunday and Monday, Dutch time.

Key facts

The potential rescheduling highlights the challenges faced by teams during major tournaments, where unforeseen circumstances like weather can force significant adjustments to game plans. For Mexico, a team known for its tactical discipline, such a late change could impact their performance on the field. Aguirre’s strong reaction underscores the importance of stability in tournament preparations and the potential for frustration when decisions are made without consultation.

Source: Voetbal International – https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/bondscoach-mexico-woest-over-mogelijke-wedstrijdwijziging