October 30 – In the wake of the turmoil in Israel and the subsequent decision by the UEFA Executive Committee to prohibit any UEFA competition matches in the country until further notice, UEFA has taken steps to relocate the upcoming UEFA Europa League group stage match between Israeli side Maccabi Haifa FC and Villarreal CF.
Following consultations with the clubs and national associations concerned, UEFA has confirmed that the match, originally scheduled to take place in Israel, will be relocated to the AEK Arena in Larnaca, Cyprus.
The match is set to be played on Thursday, November 9, 2023, with kickoff at 18:45 CET and will take place behind closed doors, with no spectators allowed in the stadium.
The decision to move the fixture to Cyprus was made with the primary aim of ensuring the safety of all players, officials, and fans.
The neutral venue allows the clubs to focus on the game while minimising potential risks associated with the complex security situation in the region.
UEFA said the match’s relocation to Cyprus is a temporary measure, and further updates regarding the resumption of UEFA competition matches in Israel will be communicated as the situation evolves. UEFA said that it remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all participants, and this relocation is a proactive step in achieving that goal.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1722044325labto1722044325ofdlr1722044325owedi1722044325sni@g1722044325niwe.1722044325yrrah1722044325