Following Tuesday’s emergency meeting of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in Kuala Lumpur, a new date has been set for Glory’s AFC Champions League Group F home game against Shanghai Shenhua.
The Chinese side were due to visit Perth Rectangular Stadium on Tuesday 11 February 2020, but due to the restrictions on visitors from China entering Australia that were introduced in response to the coronavirus outbreak, the game has now been provisionally rescheduled for Tuesday 28 April 2020 (kick-off time 7:05PM WST).
The decision to reschedule the game was welcomed by FFA Head of Leagues Greg O’Rourke who attended the meeting to represent the Australian clubs involved in the competition.
“Everyone who attended the meeting understands the gravity of this serious global health issue and while our wish is to play football, we will not risk the health and safety of those involved,” he said.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and work with the AFC, the Australian Federal and State Governments and our clubs to ensure that these matches can be played under safe conditions.”
Those sentiments were echoed by AFC General Secretary, Dato’ Windsor John.
“We came together in difficult circumstances to find solutions to allow us to play football while ensuring we protect the safety and security of all players, officials, stakeholders and fans,” he said.
“We also accept that this coronavirus is a much bigger issue than just football and we wish all those who have been affected a speedy return to health.”
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