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4h ago

EFL Slams UEFA After Champions League Date Forces Multiple Fixture Changes

The league says UEFA’s refusal to move a Liverpool fixture has forced last-minute rescheduling that disrupts fans, clubs and broadcasters.

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Soccer Football - Champions League - Draw For Quarter Final, Semi Final and Final - UEFA Headquarters, Nyon, Switzerland - March 15, 2024 General view of the UEFA logo after the draw REUTERS/Denis Balibouse
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Overview

  • The EFL apologised on Monday for short-notice changes and publicly criticised UEFA for being “unwilling to co-operate” after it had to rearrange three domestic fixtures.
  • Everton v Wolves in the Carabao Cup was moved from 9 September to 16 September, Liverpool v Tottenham was brought forward to 15 September, and Wolves’ Championship home game with Portsmouth was pushed to 20 October.
  • The reshuffle followed UEFA placing Liverpool’s Champions League match with Atletico Madrid on 9 September and, the EFL says, refusing to change that date because of the effect on supporters travelling from overseas.
  • Local policing rules on Merseyside that bar Everton and Liverpool hosting home games on the same night were the immediate operational reason the EFL could not keep its original schedule.
  • The EFL warned that UEFA’s expanded club calendar and limited consultation have increased fixture complexity and said the changes will inconvenience supporters and broadcasters and could presage more clashes this season.