UEFA set plan for Champions League return

– UEFA has reaffirmed its desire to conclude the 2019/20 campaign – The body halted competitions due to the outbreak of COVID-19 – Four second-leg ties of the round of 16 still remain to be played European football governing body, UEFA, has reportedly started drawing up a calendar to have Champions League resume. The continental football competition is among those abruptly halted following the global outbreak of coronavirus pandemic.

But after weeks of inaction, the tournament could be in line for a resumption, with UEFA looking to conclude the campaign. SunSport citing French news outlet RMC Sport reports UEFA officials held a video meeting on Wednesday morning, May 6, with relevant club chiefs reaffirming desire to have the tournament played to its ultimate conclusion. In the meeting, it was agreed domestic divisions across Europe must be finished by the end of July to pave way for Champions League and Europa League to take place.

As such, the Round of 16 second leg tie pitting Juventus and Lyon in Turin has been slated for Saturday, August 8. However, the match will only be played at this date should it be declared safe by authorities in Italy. Juventus will be keen to seal a place in the last eight despite trailing their visitors 1-0 all thanks to Lucas Tousart’s goal in the first leg.

Chelsea’s second leg clash against Bayern Munich is the other important fixture yet to be played. Meanwhile, reports suggest the quarter-finals could be decided after just one match as opposed to the usual two legs.