Thunderstorms are forecast to rage during England and Norway’s Miami World Cup quarter-final fixture this Saturday, raising the possibility of delays. The match is scheduled for 10pm BST (5pm local time) at the Hard Rock Stadium, but weather predictions indicate cloudy skies, heavy rain, and thunderstorms could disrupt proceedings.
FIFA Lightning Rules Could Trigger Suspension
FIFA rules state that if lightning occurs within eight miles (13km) of the stadium, the game must be temporarily suspended to protect players and fans. This has sparked fears of a delayed kick-off time, similar to England's previous match against Mexico, which was pushed back an hour due to thunderstorms and heavy rain in Mexico City.
England's Recent Victory and Injury Blow
England advanced to the quarter-finals after a chaotic 3-2 win over Mexico, but the victory came at a cost. Veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson suffered a freak injury while celebrating, tripping over advertising hoardings and landing awkwardly with his right arm trapped beneath his body. According to football writer John Cross, Henderson is likely to miss the rest of the World Cup.
Speaking on the podcast Make Football Great Again, Cross said: "Well, it feels like it might be [his World Cup over], to be honest. I know it's a sort of a wrist, a stroke arm injury which, you know, you probably get in plaster and what have you, but that early stage is going to be difficult for him... It feels as if it's probably going to be his World Cup over. What an absolute hammer blow, really, because he was put up in the press conference pre-match, Tuchel clearly thinks he's going to say the right thing and sort of motivate the troops."
Henderson Remains in Mexico City
Henderson has remained in Mexico City for treatment and rehabilitation, while the rest of the England squad travels back to their base in Kansas City. His absence is a significant blow to England's midfield depth as they prepare to face Norway.
