Coronavirus: Barcelona vs Napoli to be played behind closed doors
The upcoming UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg clash between Barcelona and Napoli is set to be played behind closed doors. The tie at Camp Nou will not have any spectators owing to the fear of coronavirus. This is the second Spanish-Italian Champions League fixture at which supporters have not been allowed. Here's more on the same.
Three UCL matches to be played behind closed doors
On Tuesday, the clash between Valencia and Atalanta will be played with no spectators. The decision was made after Spain's health ministry announced that the tie will be played in an empty stadium in order to contain the spread of coronavirus. Meanwhile, French club Paris Saint-Germain's home game against Borussia Dortmund in the UCL will also be played behind closed doors.
Several Europa League matches to be played behind closed doors
Besides the UCL, certain matches in the Europa League will meet the same fate. Getafe's game with Inter Milan, Manchester United's tie against LASK in Austria, Roma's clash against Sevilla in Spain and Olympiacos versus Wolves will all be played without fans being admitted. Recently, Juventus' match against Inter in the Serie A on Sunday saw the same being played behind closed doors.
All sport in Italy suspended until April 3
The coronavirus outbreak in Italy has seen all sport in the nation get suspended until at least April 3. Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte announced the decision. Conte also extended a series of strict quarantine measures, which includes a ban on public gatherings. Italy's Olympic committee recommended the move after a special meeting consisting sports bodies was held.
Indian Wells tennis tournament got cancelled on Monday
On Monday, the Indian Wells tennis tournament got cancelled over concerns about the spread of coronavirus in Southern California. The tournament is a combined ATP and WTA event. Notably, it is one of the biggest and prestigious tournament outside of the Grand Slams and was due to start this week. Tournament director Tommy Haas said they will explore other options.
