FFF president Philippe Diallo acknowledged the 'very unusual circumstances' that forced the match to be halted after the first half in Philadelphia. 'We must respect the rules of the host country,' Diallo said, noting that a 30-minute reset protocol following each lightning strike created an unprecedented situation with multiple postponements.
Players and spectators evacuated to shelter as severe thunderstorms swept the region. Diallo made clear that no consideration was given to postponing the match to the following day, with organizers committed to completing play on the scheduled date.
The extended break created unique challenges for tactical focus, yet France scored twice in the second half after the restart to secure qualification. The incident highlights operational lessons for World Cup organizers should further severe weather occur.
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