The fixture, in Mexico City, follows England’s win over the Democratic Republic of Congo and has left schools weighing how much flexibility families should receive.
Some have already chosen a compromise. Castle Hill Primary School in Basingstoke will allow pupils to arrive at 09:30, rather than the usual 08:35, giving children time to sleep without missing the entire school day.
The school told parents: “We have put this in place so that families can enjoy the World Cup and the children can still get enough sleep to enjoy their learning too.”
Tuchel framed the match as a rare national occasion, adding: “There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch.”
He also urged families to support the team, saying: “There will be a big, big match on in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.”
Skills minister Baroness Jacqui Smith took a firmer line, although she also intends to watch. “I don't want to be a killjoy here,” Smith said, warning that lost classroom time could affect pupils’ learning. She joked that she would take “a little disco nap” before going to work “looking obviously as fresh as a daisy”.
Education unions have argued that local leaders are best placed to judge the circumstances. Daniel Kebede called a later start recognition of “an important event in our calendar”, while Pepe Di’Iasio said head teachers should determine the right arrangement.
That approach avoids a one-size-fits-all ruling. Families, schools and academy trusts can balance enthusiasm with rest, attendance and learning.
The debate will continue until Monday morning, when England face Mexico. The result may matter most on the pitch, but the first victory for many young supporters could simply be getting through the next school day.