The Carabao Cup closing between Liverpool and Chelsea will now kick-off earlier as a consequence of police issues.
It had initially been scheduled for 4.30pm on Sunday, February 25. But the Metropolitan Police requested the match be introduced ahead after the Reds and the Blues progressed to the ultimate.
The pressure categorised the fixture as “high risk” and argued it ought to get underway no later than 3pm – and their want has now been granted, with kick-off moved again 90 minutes.
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An EFL spokesperson mentioned: “Following representations from the @metpoliceuk, the local safety advisory group has determined the 2024 @Carabao_Cup Final will now kick-off at 3pm.
“Having previously scheduled the usual 4.30pm kick off time with @wembleystadium and @SkySports, it is disappointing to note the change at this late stage.”
What do you consider the brand new kick-off time? Let us know within the feedback part.
(Image: AFP by way of Getty Images)
There was additionally frustration amongst followers, significantly the travelling Liverpool help. One reacted: “Ridiculous this, fans who have planned travel, what will you do to help them?”
“Absolutely laughable,” slammed a second, whereas a 3rd fumed: “Shocking! Hope they stick to this time when Liverpool aren’t in the final!”
(Image: PA)
A fourth questioned: “Yet we can play 8:15 pm this Wednesday against the same team at home?” And a fifth joked: “3pm is fine. As we all know, people can only fight each other after half 4!”
A sixth quipped: “Surprised they didn’t make it half 12 just to p*** Klopp off.” Liverpool and Chelsea twice confronted one another at Wembley in 2022, as either side reached the ultimate of the 2 home cup competitions.
Those fixtures have been performed at 4.15pm and 4.30pm, with each going off with none main incident. Last yr’s FA Cup closing between Manchester United and Manchester City was equally introduced ahead.