July 10 – The four outstanding Champions League round of 16 second-leg ties, postponed because of COVID-19 in March, can be hosted by the scheduled home teams providing there are no travel restrictions.
UEFA made the announcement yesterday on the eve of today’s quarterfinal draw, a huge boost to home clubs who feared they may have to play on neutral ground in Portugal like the quarterfinals onwards.
The competition was halted in March because of coronavirus and is set to conclude in August with a mini-tournament at two Lisbon stadiums on four straight nights in single-leg knockout games.
However, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Manchester City will first be allowed to host the second leg of their last-16 matches at home.
UEFA confirmed Thursday it gained clearance from public authorities in Spain, Germany, Italy and England to let the teams play at home on August 7 and 8.
UEFA also announced that no tickets will be sold to fans for the mini-tournament in Lisbon, dashing hopes that some spectators – even if just those resident in the Portugal capital – may be allowed in.
“In light of the current situation, the UEFA executive committee felt it prudent to conclude that UEFA matches should take place behind closed doors until further notice,” a statement said.
In the Europa League, six clubs can also host their outstanding second-leg games in the round of 16 ahead of another mini-tournament in Germany.
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