\n<\/p>\n
Big screens inside the Azteca alerted people that an electrical storm was approaching and to remain in their seats, though many sought cover from the rain.<\/p>\n
Play cannot begin until 30 minutes have passed since lightning was last detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.<\/p>\n
With regards to delays caused by severe weather, Fifa has no power to make its own rules – it must adhere to the advice of local authorities.<\/p>\n
In the United States, recommendations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are used.<\/p>\n
The NOAA says if any lightning strike is detected within eight miles of a stadium the game has to be stopped. The rules are the same in Mexico.<\/p>\n
When there is an increased risk of lightning strikes, the safety of players and supporters is given paramount importance.<\/p>\n
All players must leave the pitch, and fans must seek shelter away from their seats.<\/p>\n
A mandatory 30-minute countdown begins. Each time there is a lightning strike inside the distance, the countdown clock resets to 30 minutes.<\/p>\n
If a full 30 minutes has elapsed, the supporters can go back to their seats and players will have a short warm-up.<\/p>\n
Sources told BBC Sport on Saturday that world governing body Fifa had been set to reschedule the fixture, and confirm in a statement, but news of the proposal angered both English and Mexican officials.<\/p>\n
The English Football Association (FA) requested time to review the weather forecast in more detail.<\/p>\n
As talks went on, concerns over the impact on player preparation, fan travel and the logistics around moving the staging of such a huge game were discussed.<\/p>\n
The proposed change was first reported by local media in Mexico.<\/p>\n
Fifa maintained no decision had been made and – after pushback from both associations – it was decided to keep the tie at its original kick-off time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n