The police in French capital Paris has confirmed that no spectators will be permitted to attend Wednesday's UEFA Champions League clash between Paris Saint Germain and Borussia Dortmund. The two sides are set to lock-horns in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie but as a precaution instated by the French government, will have no fans cheering them on.
With the coronavirus outbreak gathering pace all over the world, a lot of sporting events that draw crowds have been suspended indefinitely by governments of certain European countries. On Monday, Italy became the first among the top five European leagues to ban all Serie A games until April 3. The call made by the government also includes all other sporting activities.
In France, gatherings of more than 1,000 people are not permitted. This precaution, according to the Paris Police Prefecture, will prevent football fans from attending Wednesday's game between PSG and Dortmund at Parc des Princes.
"Given the measures announced by the defense council, the Paris Police Prefecture have decided that the match between PSG and Borussia Dortmund will take place behind closed doors," a tweet from the police said.
#Coronavirus | En application des mesures annoncées en conseil de défense hier soir, le préfet de Police a décidé que le match #PSGBVB se déroulera à huis clos. pic.twitter.com/arwKhKE81f
— Préfecture de Police (@prefpolice) March 9, 2020
Despite the measures put in place by the French government, Dortmund will enter the mid-week's European encounter retaining optimism to progress to the next stage. Thanks to a brace of goals by Erling Haaland, the men in yellow and black secured an advantage with the first leg win although Neymar's consolation for the visitors could be crucial going forward.
Meanwhile, UEFA is yet to make a statement on the issue of the fixture at Parc des Princes being played being close doors.
