The BBC hit back in the World Cup ratings battle with ITV by announcing exclusive live rights to “family-friendly” kick-offs in the first knockout phase including England’s clash against Democratic Republic of Congo.
BBC bosses said its priority for the Round of 32 was to secure fixtures “falling in time slots to ensure children and their families can watch together live as the tournament steps up a notch” as the battle for World Cup ratings continues.
With the BBC getting first pick of the 16 knockout games, the corporation opted for England’s game first knockout game, which kicks off at 5pm on Wednesday, the first pre watershed after two matches kicked off at 9PM, and Panama 10PM.
The BBC said it was “providing fans with the only free‑to‑air destination to watch the Three Lions as they begin their knockout campaign.”
The “family-friendly” BBC’s selections also include the 6pm match between Ivory Coast and Norway on Tuesday.
