A Cardiff pub has reversed its decision to ban English fans from watching Tuesday night's huge World Cup fixture between Wales and England.
O’Neill's, on the corner of St Mary Street and Wood Street in the city centre, had announced on Monday that it had taken the decision to exclude England fans from the venue due to the expected “extreme levels of passion and support” that would be displayed during the game, with the two sides meeting for the first time ever at a football World Cup.
The popular Irish pub said they wanted to create a "safe atmosphere" for Wales fans, adding that the venue would become a "home fan zone" for the evening, with English fans barred for "the safety and comfort of all our team and guests".
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On Monday, a spokesperson said: "We have taken the decision to be a 'home fan zone'. 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!”
However, the decision was heavily criticised, with the pub making a U-turn less than 24 hours later.
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."
Rob Page's side face a mammoth task in Tuesday evening's crucial game as they bid to extend their World Cup campaign after reaching the tournament for the first time in 64 years. England are all but guaranteed to qualify for the knockout round, barring a heavy defeat to Wales and a win for either Iran and USA in the other Group B fixture, while Wales must hope that game finishes in a draw and that they can pull off a shock victory against England.
If the other game ends with a win for either side, Page’s men would have to beat Gareth Southgate’s side by four clear goals. You can follow live Wales v England updates here.
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