Alleged terror threats from the Islamic State elicited concern but did not prompt any cancellations of the Champions League soccer matches taking place throughout Europe this week.
UEFA, which governs the competition, said it was “aware” of the apparent threats, which stemmed from social media posts attributed to an ISIS-affiliated media organization that allegedly called for attacks at the stadiums.
The validity of the threats has not been confirmed.
“[UEFA] is closely liaising with the authorities at the respective venues,” the European soccer association said in a statement Tuesday. “All matches are planned to go ahead as scheduled with appropriate security arrangements in place.”
The announcement came before Tuesday’s matches between Real Madrid and Manchester City in Madrid and between Arsenal and Bayern Munich in London.
On Wednesday, Paris Saint-Germain is scheduled to play Barcelona in Paris, and Atlético Madrid is set to take on Borussia Dortmund in Madrid.
“Who wouldn’t be concerned by that? Of course we’re concerned,” PSG coach Luis Enrique said of the alleged threats. “We hope it’s only a threat and that nothing will happen.”
The concerns surrounding the Champions League quarterfinal ties come less than three weeks after ISIS claimed responsibility for the mass shooting at Moscow’s Crocus Hall that left 144 people dead.
Officials in cities hosting UEFA matches this week publicly vowed to have significant police presences in place.
“We have seen, among others, a statement from the Islamic State, which is particularly targeting stadiums. It’s not new,” said France Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin. “This morning we asked the general director of interior security to communicate the information we have with the other (security) services of the other countries hosting the quarterfinals.”
With News Wire Services
