On Friday at midday AEST, the Socceroos will take on Paraguay in their final group stage match at the World Cup.

With a win or draw, Australia would qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament for only the third time in history.

Should they lose, the Socceroos could still sneak through to the next stage, but it will become much harder, coming down to points and the results of other matches.

Die-hard fans probably already booked leave from work to watch this game weeks ago. But for the majority of Australians now tuning in, they won’t have planned so far ahead.

Some will wish they had taken Friday afternoon off – or may even be tempted to call in sick for the day, and hope not to get caught.

What are the legal rules around asking for time off from work, especially this soon before kickoff? Can employers who suspect people of not being sick ask for a medical certificate?

And if Australia makes it through to play on at the World Cup, how far in advance should you be asking for time off – without breaking the rules?

Read more: Why the Paraguay match will define the Socceroos’ World Cup

Can I ask for time off at such short........

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