Reduce risk taking as much as possible. This is the objective of PSG, like other sports clubs, during public outings. Against Dijon (4-0) on Saturday, a good part of the pre-match protocol was modified: no red carpet to avoid contact with the outside, no children to accompany the players on the lawn and no handle hands with players and opposing staff. Amazing but necessary images as France became the second center of coronavirus contamination in Europe this weekend.
This Wednesday, the first questions arise for the trip to Lyon, in the semi-final of the Coupe de France. The Lyon region is also affected by the epidemic. A first division basketball game between ASVEL and Monaco was postponed this Sunday. But the derby between OL and ASSE was maintained in Décines, a suburb of the capital of Gaul. What will it be for the meeting against PSG? The two clubs are waiting, even if no echo exists for the moment around a possible closed session or postponement.
For Paris, the prospect of a return match of the knockout stages of the Champions League against Dortmund behind closed doors also worries. " That would be a pity. As much to cancel it, launched Marquinhos, captain of the team in the absence of Thiago Silva. They had their supporters with them to go. We want our supporters by our side. If that's how it is, we will ask that we cancel the match. ” A hot reaction that is understandable but that does not fall within any legal framework provided by UEFA.
UEFA to take decisions in due time
The European authority imposed, after discussions with the Italian government, that the match of sixteenth of final return of League Europe between Inter Milan and Ludogorets is played without spectator. The Milan region is the most affected in the Old Continent. This weekend, the Italian Football League posted five Serie A posters for the same reasons.
For Paris, the evolution of the virus in its region will therefore be essential. If the epidemic continues, the reception of Dortmund behind closed doors could be imposed. We are still ten days away from the match and UEFA ensures that it will take the decisions in due time. Saturday, the French Minister of Health, Olivier Véran, announced "the prohibition of all gatherings of more than 5000 people in confined places and when necessary in open places", like the semi- capital marathon. Patience is therefore required.