Could weather delay England vs France? Storms expected for third place play-off tonight

England will be hoping to get their World Cup third place play-off out of the way as quickly as possible this evening.

But unfortunately, there’s a real chance that their misery could be compounded with a long night against France…

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The weather at the tournament has certainly had an impact, with multiple games being delayed due to severe storms.

Thomas Tuchel’s side saw kick-off for their incredible last 16 win over Mexico delayed for an hour amid poor conditions.

And similar could end up happening in Miami…

England vs France: Weather forecast

England take on France on Saturday, July 18 at 10pm UK time, which means it will be at 5pm local time in Miami, Florida.

Currently, thunderstorms are predicted for that time, alongside 32-degree temperatures with a real feel of 42C.

According to the forecast at the time of writing, there will be storms in Miami from 12pm local time through until 6pm.

And that means there is a real risk of delays to the start of the World Cup third place play-off if that remains the case.

FIFA regulations state that matches must be halted if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of a stadium.

So, if that’s the case in Miami, then a potential kick-off delay could be put in place to make sure any electrical storm passes.

Fortunately, during the match, things are expected to clear up as things stand, so any in-game delays are unlikely.

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England vs France: talkSPORT coverage

talkSPORT will have live coverage of the World Cup third place play-off between England and France from Miami on Saturday.

Sam Ellard will be your host, with commentary coming from Nigel Adderley and former Three Lions defender Micky Gray.

Listen talkSPORT through the website or find us on DAB digital radio through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

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England vs France: What has been said?

Tuchel admitted after his side lost to Argentina on Wednesday that no one wants to play the third place play-off.

FIFA have already faced some backlash from fans for having the game in the schedule for those defeated in the semi-finals.

Speaking after the heartbreak, he said: “None of our players and none of the French players want to play this match.

“They want to play the final. We gave everything to achieve that. Everyone plays to win the World Cup, but that’s how it is.

“We have one less day of recovery than France, but we will do it with professionalism.”