Odeon cinemas will be using digital technology to show England's world cup group games to cinema-goers.

In partnership with Hutchison 3G, Odeon will be showing the matches with Sweden, Argentina and Nigeria live at five cinemas across the country; in Leicester Square, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle.

Viewing the matches is free; people can register with Hutchison 3G at any Odeon cinema in the area, receiving a scratch card which gives a one in two chance of winning a ticket.

'I'm sure football fans are going to love watching the England games on the big screen at Odeon,' said Richard Segal, Odeon chief executive. 'But this is just the start of the digital projection revolution at Odeon cinemas.'

Luke Vetere, head of marketing said: 'Watching football matches in the Odeon cinemas will be unlike any experience you could get in a pub; the screens are massive with digital pictures and digital sound, plus there will be a great atmosphere with a range of people, particularly children, who you wouldn't normally see watching sports in a pub.'

At present, Odeon only plans to screen the England group matches, but should the national team make it through to the second phase of the World Cup, the cinema chain will consider showing those matches as well.

As well as sporting fixtures, Odeon will be using its digital technology to broadcast a variety of events in future, including pop concerts, musicals and ballets. Details: +44 (0)20 7465 7700