Mercedes-Benz Stadium has issued a statement confirming that the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between England and Argentina will kick off at 8pm on Wednesday night as planned, dismissing reports of a potential delay. The stadium's retractable roof ensures the match is not weather-dependent, allowing play to proceed regardless of rain or lightning.
Stadium Roof Guarantees Timely Start
A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Stadium stated: "Since the stadium is covered, the match is not weather-dependent so it will be played as scheduled. No, it won't be delayed, the game will start as planned regardless of weather." The roof enables the venue to maintain the schedule even if fans face delays entering due to weather conditions. The spokesperson added: "We will do everything we can to ensure the safety of fans, but it won't delay the start of the game if fans are still entering the stadium or are delayed entering due to weather conditions."
Gate Opening and Safety Measures
Gates will open three hours before kick-off at 5pm. The spokesperson noted that if weather is detected in the area, the stadium will work to get fans inside as quickly as possible. The semi-final follows France's match against Spain on Tuesday at 8pm.
Expert Predictions on the Match
Football analyst Guillem Balague commented to BBC Sport: "Argentina will try to make the game against England uneventful, and then wait for a moment of brilliance from Lionel Messi or Julian Alvarez. But they have been playing with fire." He added: "England are still trying to find their identity but they have a huge amount of personality and two world-class stars." Balague expressed hope for a Spain vs England final, but said he would like England to win a World Cup soon. Meanwhile, BBC Sport's Phil McNulty predicted an England vs France final, with Didier Deschamps winning the World Cup in his farewell, but admitted his predictions have been wrong before.
