England fans ordered to remove St George's flags during World Cup victory over Croatia

England supporters were ordered to remove St George's flags during the Three Lions' World Cup opener against Croatia, with some fans claiming they were threatened with having the banners confiscated.Thomas Tuchel's side produced an impressive second-half display to secure a 4-2 victory in Arlington, Texas, but a number of travelling supporters were left frustrated by the treatment they received inside the stadium.Many fans had arrived early to hang England flags around the venue before kick-off, continuing a long-standing tradition seen at major international tournaments.The banners, often decorated with club names or hometowns, are a familiar sight following England across the world. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say However, several had been draped over official FIFA advertising boards, something tournament organisers do not permit.Stewards were alerted to the issue and instructed supporters to remove the flags, with some fans claiming they were warned the banners would be taken away if they refused.The decision reportedly angered many England followers, who had spent significant sums travelling to the United States for the tournament.One supporter from London, identified as Dan, had brought an 8ft by 5ft England flag featuring Arsenal branding and was unhappy with the stance adopted by officials.For the amount of money we have paid it is a joke, he told the Telegraph.But what can you do?It is another occasion where football fans are getting treated like cattle.Another group of supporters attempted to display an England flag carrying Birmingham City references but were also told it could not remain in place.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Thomas Tuchel left furious after national anthem incident in England World Cup win over CroatiaDeclan Rice gives injury update after being forced out of England World Cup win against CroatiaThomas Tuchel spotted having heated row with England star during World Cup victory over CroatiaOne stadium official has explained the reasoning behind the decision.Unfortunately, the people put in charge don't want anybody to have flags here, the official said.I am going to make everybody take the flags down. Those are the rules. You guys have to take the flags down.We are going to have to take the flags off you. No flags.That is FIFA. Those are the rules. If you don't remove them they will make us do it.FIFA has taken a stricter approach towards branding and stadium presentation at recent tournaments, seeking to ensure sponsor boards and digital advertising displays remain unobstructed.Some England flags were ultimately permitted to stay inside the stadium, although they were positioned high up in the corners of the ground and were not visible during television coverage.Others had reportedly covered illuminated digital displays, which stadium officials and FIFA are said to regard as a potential health and safety concern.The disagreement failed to dampen spirits among England supporters for long as Harry Kane scored twice, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also found the net to hand Tuchel a winning start to his World Cup reign.Additional group stage games against Ghana and Panama now lie in wait. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter