PSG–Barcelona match remains scheduled despite French protests, officials say

Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League match against Barcelona remains scheduled for 20 October at the Parc des Princes in Paris despite protests in France, Al Jazeera reported on 19 October. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the fixture would not be postponed or cancelled; PSG lists a 19:00 GMT kickoff on its fixture page.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told reporters at the same news conference that there were no plans to cancel the match. The statement gives supporters and the two clubs the government’s position a day before the fixture, after days of protests in Paris and elsewhere had raised questions about whether it could proceed.

Curfews considered after weekend violence

The prime minister did not identify which cities would impose curfews or explain what form they would take. He ruled out a full curfew across Paris, saying: ‘It is out of the question to put all of Paris under curfew.’ The scope of any restrictions therefore remained unclear as the match approached.

Barcelona due in Paris for Tuesday fixture

Barcelona were travelling to Paris on Monday afternoon, according to Al Jazeera, and neither club had indicated that the violence would affect the fixture. PSG’s official fixture listing names Barcelona as its opponent at the Parc des Princes on 20 October, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT.

The unrest has already affected other French football clubs. Marseille said looters caused significant damage to its official store on La Canebière and that the shop had temporarily closed. Lille said its city-centre store suffered extensive damage and widespread looting and would remain closed until further notice.

Lille thanked store employees and passersby who offered help after the damage. Its closure and Marseille’s temporary closure show effects of the protests on clubs beyond the Paris fixture, even as French officials said PSG’s match with Barcelona remained on the schedule.