UEFA has refused to carry the match, “Zenith” with “Gent” on neutral ground – RBC

UEFA refused to carry the match, “Zenith” with “Gent” on a neutral field

The transfer of match of the sixth round of the Champions League between the Belgian “Ghent” and St. Petersburg “Zenith” in the neutral field is excluded, according to TASS referring to the press service of UEFA.

The Mayor of Ghent Daniel Thermon banned fans from St. Petersburg visit the match, which is scheduled for December 9 .

«This is not a new situation when the fans are not recommended to attend matches. We will consult with local authorities, the local police and make a decision. It will be made, taking into account security considerations.

This is – the key point. Everyone knows that there are reasons for the Russian fans may have some problems. The decision will be made, possibly next week. Neither of which the transfer of a match on neutral ground can be no question. The game will take place in Belgium “, – said the press service.

Earlier, Director General of” Zenith “Maxim Mitrofanov announced its readiness to consider moving the match with” Gent “on a neutral field.

“The statement of the mayor of Ghent is surprising. If the city authorities and the football club “Gent” is not ready to provide the conditions for a match the level of the Champions League, it probably makes sense to consider moving the game on a neutral field, “- said Mitrofanov.

Russia’s sports minister , president of the Russian Football Union Vitaly Mutko has sent a request to UEFA to postpone the match at a neutral field.

«Of course, this is not normal. There are rules of FIFA, UEFA, and there is up to 10% of the tickets can be given to the visiting team. And this is creating unequal conditions. If the leaders of the city, the country can not provide a safe environment, then this game should be transferred to another stadium. I, too, is the message sent today at UEFA, “- said Mutko.

The Mayor of Ghent Daniel Thermon explained his decision to the tensions between Turkey and Russia, which arose after the Turkish Air Force shot down a Russian Su-24 bomber.

«The main reason for my decision – a recent incident between Turkey and Russia. Ghent is home to quite a large Turkish Diaspora, as fans of “Zenith” have a very bad reputation.

This is a difficult decision, but I am responsible for security in the city, “- said Thermon.

Another challenge is held in Ghent on the same days of city festivals that are taken to visit the family. The police feared that he could not ensure the safety of citizens.

After five rounds of the Champions League, “Zenit” first time in history guaranteed his exit in the playoffs of the tournament from the first place. St. Petersburg’s team won the Champions League five consecutive victories – over the “Valencia” on the road ( 3: 2), “Ghent” Home ( 2: 1), “Lion” at home ( 3: 1), “Lion” on the road ( 2: 0) and ” Valencia ‘home ( 2: 0).

«Gent” with 7 points ranks in standings second group. To exit in the playoffs they need to win at home, “Zenit».