It is the sort of fixture clash that has football fans praying for divine intervention.
But now the Church of England has advised vicars to reschedule their Christmas carol services to ensure they do not coincide with the World Cup final.
It has issued guidance to clergy warning of the possible difficulties of holding events on December 18, the last Sunday before Christmas and the traditional date for afternoon or evening festive services.
The advice has been issued through the Church Support Hub website, under the heading "Making the most of the World Cup".
It is the first time the possible clash - which could see the loyalties divided between the Three Kings and the Three Lions, should England reach the final - has arisen, because the tournament is traditionally held in the summer.
It had to be moved to the winter to avoid the summer heat in host nation Qatar.
To avoid congregations staying away, to watch the game on television, the advice states: "On the 18th December, churches often hold Carol Services in the afternoon or evening, and this could still be possible if you choose the time carefully… but what if there are penalties?!
"It may be best to avoid that day altogether and host a carol service on Saturday 17th instead."
One Norfolk church community is pressing on with its plans for December 18 services, but is trying to offer its congregations the best of both worlds.
The Tas Valley Team Ministry in south Norfolk has four carol services that day, in Saxlingham Nethergate, Shotesham, Swainsthorpe and Tasburgh.
All but one are being held after 6pm. However, the Saxlingham event begins at 3pm - the exact time the big match kicks off.
The Rev Dawn Davidson, its vicar, said: "As Christmas is a major annual festival we are aware of these things, but there will always be something that clashes.
"In my opinion, I don't think we should arrange things around football, particularly given the controversy around the venue."
The decision to hold the tournament in Qatar has been marred in controversy, including allegations of corruption and human rights violations.
Mrs Davidson added: "I think we have managed to offer the best of both worlds for our community. Those who don't want to watch the game can come to Saxlingham at 3pm and those who do could come to one of the others nearby. I'm not worried either way."
The Church of England document adds: “Despite this clash of dates, football and faith don’t have to be at odds with one another.”
It adds that parish churches could encourage people to “use the World Cup as a missional tool this Advent and Christmas” and includes a downloadable script for a football nativity, featuring an adaptation of England anthem Three Lions.
EDP and Evening News Carol Concert
The Eastern Daily Press and Norwich Evening News have teamed up to host a carol service of their own.
The event, which has become an annual tradition, will be held on Wednesday, December 14 at the St Peter Mancroft Church in Norwich.
Each year, proceeds from the event have been donated to a chosen charity, which in 2022 will be the Nancy Oldfield Trust.
Richard Porritt, who edits both titles, said: "There is no better way to kick off your Christmas than to come and join us for an evening of carols.
"I can't wait to see everyone there."
The concert will start at 6pm with tickets available from www.edp24.co.uk/carol-service
Should England win Group B and go on to the semi-finals, they will play later that evening.
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