Share

Bayern Munich confirm no fans at Chelsea Champions League tie

Bayern Munich confirmed on Tuesday that next week's Champions League game against Chelsea would go ahead without fans over fears of the spread of the coronavirus.

The German club's decision follows a ban by the regional Bavarian government on any gathering of more than 1,000 people until 19 April.

Bayern hold a 3-0 lead over Chelsea going into the last-16 second-leg tie on 18 March.

"FC Bayern is ... implementing the decree of the Bavarian state government, which was issued to protect the population. The aim is to minimise the risk of coronavirus infection," the club said in a statement.

"Only persons contracted to work for the operation of the match are permitted to attend. TV coverage is guaranteed," it added.

Four of the eight second-leg ties in the last 16 will be held behind closed doors. No decision has been made on next week's game between Juventus and Lyon in Turin.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Monday announced the suspension until April 3 of all sporting events in the country.

Germany's international friendly against Italy in Nuremberg - the second largest city in Bavaria - on 31 March will also be held behind closed doors.

Wednesday's Rhine derby between Borussia Moenchengladbach and Cologne will become the first game in Bundesliga history to be played without fans.

Local authorities also ordered the Ruhr derby between Borussia Dortmund and Schalke taking place on Saturday to go ahead without supporters.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2239 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE