Netherlands to allow 5000 fans who have tested negative for COVID-19 to attend their World Cup qualifier clash

Dutch fans pose prior to a Group B football match between Netherlands and Chile at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 23, 2014. [AFP PHOTO/ MARTIN BERNETTI]

The Netherlands will allow 5,000 spectators who have tested negative for COVID-19 to attend their 2022 World Cup qualifier against Latvia this month as part of a study that could help get fans back into games quicker, the Dutch FA (KNVB) said.

Spectators at the Johan Cruijff Arena on March 27 will be divided into different sections, where some must wear face masks but others will be allowed to go without them and be able to sing and shout encouragement to the team.