- Champions League matches proceed despite ISIS terror threats
- Increased security measures at stadiums in Madrid, Paris, and London
- Police collaborate closely to ensure fans’ safety during matches
Security measures will be increased for the Champions League quarterfinal matches in Madrid, Paris, and London this week in response to purported terrorist threats against all four contests. Arsenal and Manchester City, both from England, participate in the contests.
Champions League quarterfinals have proceeded notwithstanding purported terror threats.
Allegedly, a media organisation associated with ISIS issued a threat regarding all four quarterfinal matches this week, including two English football clubs, Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Gunners and German titans Bayern Munich drew 2-2 in the first leg of their round of eight matchup at the Emirates Stadium. At Real Madrid, Manchester City were held 3-3 in a thrilling encounter.
Former Tottenham captain and current Arsenal foe Harry Kane scored a penalty kick to bring the Gunners back into disarray, while City twice gave up leads in the Spanish capital.
Ahead of kickoff, security measures at both stadiums remained unchanged off the pitch; Rob Harris stated that “nothing substantially different” had occurred in north London.
Tomorrow, two more matches are scheduled: one in Madrid, involving Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, and the other in Paris, representing PSG and Barcelona.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan of the Metropolitan Police, who is in charge of policing London today, stated that the force had a “robust policing plan” for tonight’s match between Arsenal and Chelsea.
Arsenal issued the following statement: “We are “working closely” with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the safety of all attendees at tonight’s match.”
They further stated, “Our preparations for tonight’s match remain unchanged, and our approach, in collaboration with the police and UEFA, is commensurate with the present level of threat in the United Kingdom.”
A spokesman for the club’s German adversaries stated, “FC Bayern maintains regular communication with Arsenal FC, which maintains direct contact with the local police in its capacity as the host.”
“Substantial security reinforcements”
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated that the government was “collaborating closely with security and law enforcement partners to ensure events are enjoyable and secure for all in response to abhorrent propaganda surrounding the Champions League.”
He further stated, “We will maintain all precautions in place to ensure the safety of our fans.”
Regarding the conflict in the capital of France, the interior minister declared that Security had been “substantially bolstered.”
The regulatory body of club football in Europe, UEFA, issued the following statement: “UEFA is aware of purported terrorist threats directed at the UEFA Champions League matches this week and maintains close communication with the relevant venue authorities.
Every match is anticipated to proceed as planned, with all necessary security measures in place.
Gerald Darmanin, the French minister of the interior, has stated that Security in Paris will be “significantly bolstered” in response to an Islamic State “threat.”
Mr. Darmanin stated that, among other things, we have observed a communication from the Islamic State that targets stadiums specifically.
At a team press conference, PSG coach Luis Enrique stated, “It is my sincere hope that the situation can be remedied, that it remains a mere threat, and that nothing materialises. We are certainly apprehensive.”
Danilo, a member of PSG, further stated, “Security is of the utmost importance, not only for the athletes but for all sports enthusiasts and those who follow this sport.
“Although I believe that to be significant, our attention must remain on the task at hand: playing football. Other individuals must prioritise the safety and Security of all.”
Meanwhile, a minister of the Spanish government stated that every precaution had been taken to prevent terrorist attacks.
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In addition to municipal police, over 2,000 personnel of the national police and civil guard will be stationed throughout the two Madrid matches.
The interior minister of Spain further stated that “all pertinent measures” had been implemented by the government and state security forces to ensure the safety of all attendees at the two games and in the City of Madrid.
“At this time, the United Kingdom continues to face a substantial’ terrorism threat level, which means an attack is probable. In preparation for events in London, our Met Police collaborates closely with counter-terrorism policing colleagues to incorporate any pertinent information that could assist us in ensuring the safety of all attendees.
“We are cognizant of online and media reports concerning appeals to boycott matches throughout Europe, including the one in London.”
Nevertheless, I assure the public that a comprehensive policing strategy has been established to oversee tonight’s match and that our efforts remain closely aligned with those of the club’s security team to guarantee a disorderly progression of events.
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