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Chelsea, City FA Cup semi-final to hold same day as Prince Philip’s funeral

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Chelsea, City FA Cup semi-final to hold same day as Prince Philip’s funeral



The English Football League has disclosed that Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final between Chelsea and Manchester City will still go ahead.

It will likely open with a minute’s silence and black armbands for the players.

Ministers and sports chiefs will meet today and agree to allow the event to go ahead.

The match’s 5.30pm kick-off may change if it clashes with Prince Philip’s funeral service

However, the government has told the Football Association the decision is up to them — but the 5.30pm kick-off may change if it clashes with Prince Philip’s service.

The Football League has already told its clubs that 3pm games may be moved “to avoid a clash”.

An EFL spokesperson said: “As a mark of respect, EFL matches scheduled for 3pm on Saturday 17 April will be moved to avoid a clash with the funeral of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

“The EFL will now work with its clubs to determine at what time the matches will be played, giving consideration to the timing of the service.

“An announcement will follow in due course.”

A Government spokesman said: “The decision as to whether sporting fixtures continue is at the discretion of organisers.

“They may wish to consider using black armbands and observing a silence before matches,” he said.

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