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The nation is waiting to see England take on Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, but there is a chance the clash could be disrupted

Pubs and bars in England will be allowed to stay open for 30 minutes after the final whistle if the World Cup quarter-final clash against Norway is delayed. Thomas Tuchel's side take on the Scandinavians this evening in Miami.

At present, the match is scheduled to kick off at 10pm BST. However, thunderstorms and heavy rain have also been forecast in Florida, which may result in the match being delayed.

The Three Lions' round of 16 victory over Mexico had to be pushed back by an hour because of lightning at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. If lightning causes havoc before the Norway match, pubs will be allowed to extend their opening hours.

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The government has agreed to extend licensing hours until 30 minutes after the final whistle. This means, even if there was a delay, extra-time and a penalty shootout, punters in England and Wales will be able to see all the action in the boozer.

It's not the first time the current government have made a late decision on the pubs' opening times to cater for the World Cup. They were allowed to remain open until 5am for the dramatic victory over Mexico in the round of 16.

The most recent extension gives pubs and bars showing the football some breathing room. The 10pm kick-off time can easily become something much later, if inclement weather hits.

According to Accuweather, it's anticipated to be a high of 33C an hour before kick off with a ‘Real Feel’ above 40C, while the chances of rain falling have been listed at 50%. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states matches must be halted if lightning or electrical discharge is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.

There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible.

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