Cardiff pub reverses decision to ban English fans from watching Wales v England

A pub in Cardiff has reversed its decision to ban English fans from watching tonight's World Cup fixture between Wales and England.

Situated in Cardiff city centre, O’Neill's announced their decision to ban English fans due to the expected “extreme levels of passion and support” that will be displayed during the game.

On Monday, a spokesperson for the pub said it will be a 'Home Fan Zone' for the safety and comfort of staff and guests, adding: "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, after receiving criticism for being 'discriminatory', the pub has since reversed its decision, and is now welcoming "both Wales and England football fans to watch the exciting World Cup 2022 tie this evening."

Replying to a comment questioning the pub's decision on Twitter, they said added: "we will have security in place to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy the football."

Wales’ World Cup ambitions are hanging by a thread and they must win tonight if they are to have a chance of progressing to the knockout stages, while England top the group and need just a point to reach the last 16.

Despite the odds being stacked against Wales, tonight's match is still a huge fixture, which could prove to be Wales’ last at a World Cup for many years given that their last appearance came in 1958.