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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Robert Harries & Alahna Kindred

Welsh pub makes U-turn on decision to ban English fans from watching Wales v England

A Welsh pub has reversed its decision to ban English fans from watching England face off against Wales tonight in the World Cup.

Yesterday, O'Neill's, in Cardiff, had said they expected "extreme levels of passion and support" in tonight's historic clash.

The pub owners have said given tonight's fixture they want to create a "safe atmosphere" for Wales fans, and ban English supporters from entering, reports WalesOnline.

Tonight's match is historic as it's the first time the rivals will face off in a World Cup fixture.

Furthermore, it is Wales' first World Cup appearance since 1958.

Following heavy criticism, the pub has made a U-turn on its decision.

O'Neill's, in Cardiff, said they are now allowed English and Welsh fans into the pub tonight (South Wales Echo)

In a tweet on Tuesday, the pub chain announced: "We have made the decision to welcome both Wales and England football fans to watch the exciting World Cup 2022 tie this evening.

"As always, we will have security in place to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy the football."

England is in a good place to qualify for the knockout round unless they suffer a heavy defeat from Wales and a win for either Iran or USA in the other Group B fixture.

Wales can also progress by beating England by any score – but only if Iran and USA draw in their Group B game.

England fans show their support in Doha, Qatar (The FA via Getty Images)

If there is a win for either USA or Iran, then Wales needs to win by four goals.

More than 8,000 England fans will be at the match in Qatar and four million more will pack the pubs to cheer on their heroes.

England boss Gareth Southgate said: “We’ve got to match all of the spirit and energy our opponents will have.”

While Wales manager Rob Page insisted: “We can still do this.”

He described tonight’s must-win match against England – dubbed the Battle of Britain – as having “added spice”.

The pub originally said it was hosting a 'Home Fan Zone' this evening. (South Wales Echo)

A spokesperson for the pub said in a previous statement: "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 forwards to watching a great game. Cymru am Byth!”

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