England coach Thomas Tuchel wants schoolchildren awake for Mexico World Cup clash

LONDON: England head coach Thomas Tuchel has made an unusual appeal to parents, urging them to allow school-going children to stay awake and watch England’s crucial FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico, even if it means a late night before school.

Speaking after England’s victory over the DR Congo national football team in the Round of 32, Tuchel said the World Cup is a once-in-four-years event and that young fans should not miss such a special occasion.

The England-Mexico knockout clash is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 a.m. on Sunday in the United Kingdom because of the time difference with the host nation. If the match goes to extra time and penalties, it could continue until around 4:00 a.m., creating a dilemma for families with school-age children.

Tuchel suggested that parents could speak with schools if necessary, saying he hopes children will be given the opportunity to watch their national team compete on football’s biggest stage before getting some rest.

“The World Cup only comes around every four years,” Tuchel said, emphasizing that unforgettable sporting moments can inspire young fans for years to come.

The England coach acknowledged that parents across the country are divided over the issue. Some believe children should stick to their normal bedtime routines to be fresh for school, while others feel watching an important World Cup knockout match is a rare experience worth sacrificing a few hours of sleep.

Football supporters have also been debating the topic on social media, with many agreeing that international tournaments create lifelong memories for young fans.

England enter the Round of 16 full of confidence after an impressive performance against DR Congo, while Mexico will be aiming to cause an upset and reach the quarter-finals.

With excitement building ahead of the highly anticipated knockout encounter, Tuchel’s comments have added another talking point to one of England’s biggest matches of the tournament, as fans of all ages prepare to cheer on the Three Lions in their bid for World Cup glory.