England v Argentina start time as weather sparks World Cup delay fears | Football | Sport
England must defeat old foes Argentina to reach the World Cup final (Image: Getty)
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England vs Argentina start time as weather fears emerge ahead of semi-final
- Semi-final kick-off time: Fans in the UK can watch the drama unfold live when the match gets underway at 8pm on Wednesday, July 15. Supporters attending the game in person will need to be in their seats at Atlanta Stadium for 3pm local time.
- Atlanta forecast: Atmospheric conditions in Georgia could play a major role in the match, with current predictions of “scattered thunderstorms” developing throughout the day. Meteorologists expect the temperature to peak at 85°F and drop to 72°F, while humidity will remain high at 79%.
- Matchday rain chances: There is a 25% chance of rain during the day. Should severe thunderstorms arrive, the game could be delayed beforehand or held up after the action has started.
- Lightning regulations: Regulations require that a match be halted immediately if lightning or electrical activity is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Should this severe weather happen, players and staff will be swiftly removed from the pitch, while supporters will be advised to take cover. However, the Atlanta Stadium roof minimises the chances of the game being affected.
- When play can restart: To get the match back underway following such a suspension, officials require a continuous 30-minute window without a single lightning strike recorded in the area. If another strike is identified at any point during this freeze, the 30-minute countdown resets automatically. Once the delay ends, players must undertake a mandatory 15-minute warm-up before resuming.
- Previous tournament delays: It would not be the first time weather has disrupted the schedule, as several World Cup fixtures have already been delayed or suspended. The list of disrupted games includes England’s dramatic last-16 tie against Mexico in Mexico City, which eventually kicked off an hour late at 2am BST.
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