Maccabi Haifa to Play Against KAA Gent in Empty Stadium Due to War-Related Safety Concerns

Decision Made by Ghent Mayor Amid Fears of Disruptions Linked to Israel-Hamas War

Maccabi Haifa, an Israeli soccer club, will play against Belgian team KAA Gent in an empty stadium due to safety concerns related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
The decision was made by Ghent Mayor Mathias De Clercq, based on advice from local police, due to the lack of an outer perimeter at KAA Gent Arena and the potential for disruptions.
Antisemitism and the Israel-Hamas war have affected international sports, with Israeli teams playing home games in neutral countries since the outbreak of the war.
Ceasefire protests have been occurring regularly in Ghent, and there is a risk of serious riots linked to the Israel-Hamas war.
If the match is stopped for more than half an hour due to disruption, UEFA will give KAA Gent a forfeit score of 0-5.