England vs Costa Rica at risk of delays as Orlando by thunderstorm | Football | Sport

Torrential rain and lightning in Orlando could see England’s final pre-World Cup friendly against Costa Rica delayed. The match is due to get underway at 4pm eastern time (9pm BST) but adverse weather conditions could stop that from happening with standing water visible on the pitch at Inter&Co Stadium after heavy rainfall and lightning strike warnings being issued.

A further one hour of rain is expected over Orlando with a message stating “inclement weather please seek shelter” displayed on the big LED board inside the stadium. The brutal thunderstorm began three hours ago has battered the Florida city relentlessly, with torrential rain and lightning in the skies.

England supporters heading to the stadium were forced to seek shelter with some heading into a local library, as per PA, which seemingly places the game in doubt. However, as things stand it is understood that there will not be a delay to the game because of the weather.

If the match does get underway, and the weather worsens, there are strict rules surrounding lightning which would see players taken off the pitch if there is a strike nearby. The game would not resume for 30 minutes and that pause could stretch into an hour if another strike hits down close by.

The Three Lions are due to start their World Cup campaign next Wednesday against Croatia before facing Ghana and Panama. They have already played New Zealand while out in the United States and will be hoping to put in a strong display against Costa Rica, assuming the game does go ahead, this evening.

This is unlikely to be the last issue with weather at the tournament. Games at last summer’s Club World Cup were heavily impacted with Chelsea‘s knockout clash against Benfica finishing hours after it was supposed to.

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