Liverpool denied entry for Champions League showdown against RB Leipzig
The eagerly anticipated round-of-16 clash will not take place in Germany due to current circumstances.
The German government has banned entry to travelers from all areas affected by the recent coronavirus mutations, at least until 17 February, 2021. The German Federal Interior of Ministry (BMI) have come to a conclusion to not permit the proceedings of the Champions League match between Liverpool and RB Leipzig to go ahead in the country, after a special request for Liverpool to enter was rejected. (Kicker)
According to a spokeswoman from the BMI, "The Federal Police informed RB Leipzig today that the described does not fall under the exceptional circumstances and there is no special regulation for professional athletes."
As a result, the tie has been officially cancelled in the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig. The round-of-16 clash between the English and German giants is one of the many mouthwatering encounters in the competition.
The match supposed to be played on 16 February, will now either be played in Anfield first (unlikely due to the 2nd leg disadvantage of being away from home for the Reds), moved to a neutral destination or even possibly turned into a one-legged affair – similar to the ordeal being faced by Arsenal and Benfica in the Europa League.
UEFA are keeping a close eye on the situation trying to find neutral ground, but RB Leipzig risk defaulting a 0-3 loss if a proper plan isn’t submitted within 8 February, 2021. Meanwhile, UEFA are also in talks with German FA and the government over possible solutions.