Severe weather in Philadelphia has thrown the preparations for the World Cup match between favorites France and Iraq into disarray.
The stadium’s opening for spectators, scheduled three hours before kick-off, was delayed. The stadium’s scoreboard displayed: «A severe thunderstorm is approaching. Please leave the open seating areas and seek shelter as instructed by stadium personnel.»
The arena had not yet opened, and fans were waiting outside the locked gates. The home stadium of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles lacks a roof for spectators. A severe weather warning was in effect for the East Coast city for Monday afternoon and evening.
«Thunderstorms can affect the soccer game with devastating winds, hail, and a tornado,» the national weather service stated. The stadium gates finally opened about 40 minutes later than planned, but there was no definitive clearance regarding the weather. However, FIFA, the world football governing body, expressed cautious optimism to media representatives that the match, scheduled for 5:00 PM local time (11:00 PM CEST), would proceed as planned. Weather service forecasts for the match duration were more positive, leading to the expectation of a regular game.
«Thunderstorms can affect the soccer game with destructive winds, hail, and a tornado,» the national weather service wrote. «Some of the thunderstorms could be severe and bring heavy rainfall.» FIFA currently anticipates these will reach Philadelphia only after the game concludes.
Strict Rules: Lightning Strike Triggers Evacuation
Strict regulations are in place for such situations during the World Cup. As soon as a lightning strike is registered within an 8-mile (13-kilometer) radius of the stadium, grandstands and open areas must be immediately evacuated.
A mandatory 30-minute suspension is enforced after the last registered lightning strike. If lightning strikes again during this period, the countdown restarts.
Iraq Under Pressure Against France
The match is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 PM German time. This is the second group stage match for both teams.
France began their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, thanks to two goals from Kylian Mbappé. Iraq, on the other hand, suffered a 1-4 defeat against Norway. Another loss would mean Iraq would have to return home.