Be'er Sheva's Europa League Match in Düsseldorf Set Behind Closed Doors
Hapoel Be'er Sheva's Europa League away match against Union Saint-Gilloise will be held in Düsseldorf behind closed doors after the Mayor of Leuven refused to host the club.
Hapoel Be'er Sheva announced on Friday that its upcoming UEFA Europa League away match against Union Saint-Gilloise, scheduled for October 22, will take place in Düsseldorf, Germany, behind closed doors.
Union Saint-Gilloise hosts its European fixtures in Leuven because its home stadium fails to meet UEFA standards. However, following the draw, Leuven Mayor Mohamed Ridouani announced his refusal to host the Israeli club, prompting the Belgian side to seek an alternative solution.
In an official statement, Be'er Sheva explained that Union attempted to find a nearby venue allowing fans to attend, but ultimately failed to secure one. Consequently, the match will be held in Düsseldorf without spectators.
"We deeply regret this decision and the fact that fans of both teams will not be able to attend and support from the stands," Be'er Sheva stated. The club added they remain in constant contact with other upcoming opponents regarding the league phase venue logistics, with final details to be published soon.
About a week and a half ago, Union CEO Philippe Bormans estimated a "good chance the match would be played behind closed doors," as the club struggled to find an alternative stadium in Belgium and began exploring options in Germany and the Netherlands.
