British pub chain bans England football fans for historic World Cup game in shock move – and it’s dividing opinion
A BRITISH pub chain has banned England football fans from watching the historic World Cup game tonight in a shock move, leaving people divided.
The Three Lions are taking on Wales in a fiery Battle of Britain, with the clash the two countries’ first ever meeting at a football World Cup.
Media WalesA British pub chain has banned England football fans for the historic game vs Wales tonight[/caption]
ReutersEngland take on Wales in a crunch World Cup clash that will determine qualification[/caption]
Thousands have taken Tuesday and Wednesday off work for the historic game in Doha, which will see England top the group with a victory.
Wales progress if they win by four goals but any margin will do if USA and Iran draw.
The huge fixture could prove to be Wales’ last at a World Cup for many years given that their last appearance came in 1958.
And O’Neill’s, in central Cardiff, Wales, has banned England fans from watching the crunch clash, reports Wales Online.
The pub say they have taken the decision due to the expected “extreme levels of passion and support” that will be displayed during the game.
O’Neill’s, a popular pub near Cardiff railway station in the city centre, say they want to create a “safe atmosphere” for Wales fans, so are therefore banning English supporters from entering.
A spokesperson for the pub confirmed: “For the safety and comfort of all our team and guests, we have taken the decision to be a ‘Home Fan Zone’ tomorrow evening.
“This means we will only be allowing supporters of the Welsh team into the business.
“The extreme levels of passion and support on show for this particular game are like nothing we have ever seen before, and we want everyone to enjoy it in a safe and friendly atmosphere.
“Many thanks for your understanding, and we look forward to watching a great game. Cymru am Byth!”
But the decision sparked debate on social media with many disagreeing.
One person tweeted: “As a Welsh woman and someone who likes sport, I think this is pathetic.”
Another user said: “That’s not very inclusive, remember One Love”.
Pub chain O’Neill’s has its headquarters based in Birmingham and has 49 outlets throughout the UK.
It is operated by Mitchells & Butlers, one of the largest pub companies in the UK.
Gareth Southgate’s side are aiming to qualify for the next round as group winners and to bounce back from an underwhelming performance against the United States.
Currently bottom of Group B, Wales must beat England on Tuesday and hope the USA draw with Iran to progress to the last 16.
However, there might be a good omen for Wales, in their only other World Cup appearance, Wales reached the quarter-finals in 1958.
