England fans at a fan zone in Manchester audibly booed during a hydration break in the first half of the World Cup knockout match against DR Congo on Wednesday, July 1. The break, lasting approximately three minutes, added time onto the half, with England trailing 0-1 at halftime.
Fan Reaction at Depot Mayfield
Supporters gathered at Depot Mayfield to watch the match, and videos posted on X showed large groups booing after the break was announced. The hydration breaks, introduced for the first time in this tournament jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, have drawn criticism throughout the World Cup.
According to reports, fans were 'a bit annoyed' by the interruption, which occurs roughly halfway through each half. The breaks were implemented due to anticipated high temperatures at some stadiums, but they are being used in every match regardless of conditions.
Social Media Backlash
Fans also took to X to express their frustration. One user posted: "Two most annoying words in this tournament. HYDRATION BREAK." Another quipped: "I'm going to need a much longer hydration break to get through this England match!!" A third wrote: "these hydration break s*** is so stupid."
The booing and criticism highlight a growing discontent among supporters with the tournament's new rule, which some see as unnecessary and disruptive to the flow of the game.
