'European Cups behind closed doors'

UEFA Vice-President Michele Uva has confirmed that the two European Cups will be held behind closed doors this August.

The draws for the final stages of the Champions League and the Europa League were completed today and the recovery of the return legs remaining from before the break have been confirmed to be held in the respective home stadiums before moving to a mini-tournament in Portugal and Germany respectively.

But Uva has revealed that the matches will be held without spectators, fearing fans will travel across borders.

“The plan is to end the Champions League and the Europa League behind closed doors,” he told Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli. “Government protocols must be respected.

“Opening the doors now mean opening fans flowing between various nations, which is not possible today.

“This is a new, forced formula, but it makes us smile to see football at the highest level and the assignment of two coveted cups.”