Matches in the top two divisions in Spain and France are to be played behind closed doors because of coronavirus concerns.
La Liga announced its ruling will affect the next two rounds of fixtures while the French league said fans will be banned until 15 April.
La Liga said it acted on guidance from Spain’s ministry of health.
The French government announced on Sunday a ban on all gatherings of more than 1,000 people.
Barcelona’s Champions League match against Napoli on 18 March will also be played at an empty Nou Camp.
“The decision has been made strictly for health reasons,” said Joan Guix, Catalunya government’s health chief.
It is the second Spanish-Italian Champions League fixture at which supporters have been banned, following Valencia versus Atalanta on Tuesday.
Sevilla’s match against Roma and Getafe’s game with Inter Milan in the Europa League have suffered the same fate.
Paris St-Germain’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday will also be closed to fans.
All sport in Italy has been suspended until at least 3 April because of coronavirus. The ruling includes Serie A matches but not Italian clubs or national teams participating in international competitions.
Manchester United’s Europa League last-16 first leg match at LASK Linz in Austria on Thursday will also be played without fans.
Article courtesy of BBC Sport
Source link
