Limburg amateur clubs take measures for solar eclipse during practice matches

Several amateur football clubs in Belgium's Limburg province are adjusting their evening practice matches to accommodate a solar eclipse, primarily due to concerns over inadequate field lighting. The matches, scheduled during the astronomical event, have prompted clubs to consider various measures to ensure the games can proceed or be enjoyed by participants.

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I suspect the match will be stopped for a while, then we can also watch the solar eclipse together.

Eddy Jansen of FC Vliermaal explained that his club has switched to a different field that can be illuminated. "I suspect the match will be stopped for a while, then we can also watch the solar eclipse together," Jansen said, expressing hope that the game would be paused. He noted that discussions are ongoing with referees and opposing teams regarding a potential stoppage.

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It will be a surprise for all of us, what will happen.

At Heidebloem Wijshagen in Oudsbergen, chairman Tim Lynen anticipates fewer issues, suggesting that there will likely be enough light to continue playing. However, he added that if necessary, the match could be paused, emphasizing that this would not be a significant problem for a practice game. "Who knows, it might become a nice moment together," Lynen remarked.

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It is not a disaster to stop a practice match for a while.

Lynen also mentioned that while the club has not organized a group viewing, players interested in watching the partial solar eclipse can do so during halftime. He advised that any players wishing to observe the eclipse would need to bring their own protective eyewear.

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I suspect that it will actually be light enough to keep playing.