Crossword Genius

Close match that’s not put on till late? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nightie

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'not put on till late?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'close match' is the wordplay.
'close' becomes 'nigh' (similar in meaning).
'match' becomes 'tie' (tie can mean a sporting fixture).
'nigh'+'tie'='NIGHTIE'

'that's' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nightie that I've seen before include "covering for retired person" , "Sleeping attire" , "cover for retiring" , "Bedtime habit" , "Sleeping garment" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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