PSG vs Barcelona Champions League clash to go ahead despite ongoing riots

New Delhi: The marquee clash between Paris Saint-Germain and will go ahead as scheduled in the French capital on Tuesday, despite ongoing protests marked by violence and looting across the country. The French interior minister confirmed the development.

Many French citizens have been left shocked by the images of violence, which have drawn worldwide attention, highlighting the country’s tense social climate. French Prime Minister Sébastien on Monday said that he has instructed prefects to impose “very limited” and “localised” curfews in cities to prevent further rioting and looting.

The violence has affected city halls, public buildings and hundreds of businesses across the country, with more than 2,000 people arrested. Tuesday’s Champions League match between PSG and Barcelona at the Parc des Princes will require a significant security deployment, with police resources already stretched following weeks of student protests.

In May, Paris police detained dozens of people after violence broke out during celebrations of PSG’s second Champions League title win. A group also attempted to storm a police station in Paris. French Interior minister Laurent Nuñez said that the possibility of calling off all planned events (including football games) was discussed during an emergency meeting with top government officials.

“But this does not apply to tomorrow’s match between PSG and FC Barcelona,” he said, further adding that other planned games in the European tournaments this week would not be affected.

Barcelona suffer double injury blow before PSG clash

Barcelona have suffered a double injury blow ahead of a crucial week after the club confirmed injuries to defenders Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia. After the Champions League clash against PSG, the Catalan side will host Real Madrid in El Clasico next Sunday.

Garcia was sidelined for three to four weeks due to a thigh injury, while
Kounde will miss the PSG clash with an ankle sprain, but is likely to return for the Real Madrid match.