UEFA announces new Champions League schedule.
Prior to the suspension of football in most European Leagues as a result of the covid-19 pandemic outbreak, the UEFA Champions League was in its second round, the Round of 16 stage. Some matches in the Round of 16 were completed, including defending Champions Liverpool's elimination at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
However, there were four ties that were uncompleted: Bayern Munich vs Chelsea, Manchester City vs Real Madrid, Juventus vs Olympique Lyon and Barcelona vs Napoli.
On Wednesday, UEFA and relevant club officials met via video conference, and the desire to complete the Champions League this season was reiterated. They also outlined that the matches will be restarted in August starting with the remaining last 16 fixtures, with Juventus vs Lyon slated for August 8.
RMC Sport, a French outlet, have suggested that the Juventus - Lyon 2nd leg clash is provisionally slated for that date, and the quarter finals are expected to be played the following midweek.
However, there are still question marks as to what format the remainder of the competition would take.
Uncertainties still exists as to whether the normal, two legged, home-and-away format can be continued considering the current global state, hence neutral venues may be adopted for the remaining games as from the Quarter finals.
The matches would also have to be played behind closed doors, as fans arent expected to start attending games till further notice.