The reported protocol is strict:
For England, that could disrupt the pre-match routine, delay the opening whistle or break the rhythm of the game once it has started. A suspension would also affect substitutions, warm-ups and the management of players carrying fatigue.
The report says England have already experienced a weather-related delay against Mexico, while other matches at the tournament have also faced disruption. Heavy rain and lightning have therefore become part of the wider preparation around this quarter-final.
That matters tactically. A delayed start can force both managers to repeat warm-up routines and adjust the timing of team talks. If the pitch absorbs heavy rain, the ball may move more slowly and defensive errors can become more costly. England’s ability to restart sharply after an interruption could prove as important as their opening approach.
The report says officials would prioritise safety before assessing whether the pitch remains playable. If the quarter-final cannot be completed, a resumption the following day is described as the most practical outcome, with play restarting from the exact point at which it stopped.
That possibility makes game management crucial. England and Norway may need to treat every phase as potentially decisive, even if the weather interrupts the contest.
The immediate storyline is whether the quarter-final begins on time. The larger test is how quickly both teams can regain focus when the storm - literal or tactical - passes.