FIFA has made an England vs Argentina semi-final decision which is an "abomination", it has been claimed. England take on Argentina in Atlanta, Georgia, on Wednesday night, with the kick-off on July 15 coming at 8pm BST. But just because that suits England viewers tuning into BBC One, critics have fumed at the game being scheduled for 3pm local time.
Criticism from talkSPORT Host
talkSPORT host Master Tesfatsion criticised the scheduling, which will come at midday EST too. "To have a semifinal with England vs Argentina and France vs Spain, you couldn't have asked for a better scenario other than the fact that these matches are happening at 3pm Eastern Time on Tuesday and Wednesday for the host nations," he said on The S* Word. "That is an abomination, and you want to talk about how we continue to cater to Europeans and their time zones, and not being mindful of the fact that Canada, Mexico, and the United States has done a tremendous job hosting this World Cup."
Impact on Host Nation Viewers
Tesfatsion added: "Most of them, unfortunately, will have to be at work watching this or taking time off because it is in the middle of the week, in the middle of the day. It's just a ridiculous, ridiculous time slot." Thomas Tuchel's side overcame Norway 2-1 after extra time to book their place in the semi-final at Atlanta Stadium.
Historical Context
Eight years ago in Moscow, England were knocked out at this stage by Croatia despite taking a fifth-minute lead through Kieran Trippier's free-kick. England also made the final four in 1990, where they were knocked out by West Germany. Whoever wins tonight's game will face Spain in the final on Sunday at 8pm, with the final set for New Jersey's Met Life Stadium. Spain booked their place on Tuesday night, defeating France - widely regarded as favourites - 2-0 at 8pm.
