[Eduardo-Carmim/SPP]

WORLD Cup fans emptied their wallets to watch Wednesday’s big semi-final – even without flying to Atlanta.

While it was not unusual to be charged an entry fee to see big Arsenal fixtures in the title run-in earlier this year, prices were higher than ever just to get through the doors of some bars in north London showing England versus Argentina on Wednesday evening.

The extra cost didn’t stop football fans queuing around the block, however, to nab precious spots with good views of the telly screens, particularly at those that have outdoor space.

Many pubs did offer free entry, but at the Clissold Park Tavern in Highbury, where fans were waiting almost an hour in line, it was a whopping £20 to get inside – although with a “free” can of lager thrown in.

It was a rare chance to reach the World Cup final, but we all know how the match, shown on the BBC, ended.