Approximately 332,000 fewer children attended schools across England yesterday compared to the same time last week, according to provisional figures. The decline followed England’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in a men’s World Cup match held in the early hours, from 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. The late-night game and subsequent celebrations contributed to lower attendance rates during school morning registration.

Attendance data showed that 89.79 percent of pupils were present on Monday morning, down from 93.09 percent the previous Monday. The England team manager, Thomas Tuchel, had previously encouraged parents to allow their children to watch the match, even suggesting they "write an excuse for school" to permit their absence.

The impact of the game extended beyond schools, as alcohol sales and pub operations also responded to the event. An emergency law was passed late last week that allowed roughly one-third of pubs across England to remain open continuously from Sunday through the final whistle on Monday morning. Heineken UK reported a 67 percent increase in bar sales during the match, reflecting heightened consumer engagement.

England player Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in the victory, commented on the national mood after the game, urging people to take time off if possible. “Kids stay off school, parents don’t go to work, enjoy your day, have the day off if you can – these nights don’t come often,” he said, highlighting the significance of the moment for the nation.

The latest attendance data and business activity underscore the widespread effect of England’s World Cup progress, with the early morning timing of the match disrupting typical routines but energizing fans and communities nationwide.