Why Did UEFA Postpone Several Matches in Portugal?
UEFA announced the postponement of several international matches scheduled in Portugal for November 11 due to Storm Charles. Portuguese authorities issued a red weather alert amid the threat of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding.
UEFA confirmed on Tuesday that several international competition matches scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, in Portugal have been postponed due to extreme weather conditions affecting the country.
The decision came after the Portuguese government issued a red weather alert ahead of Storm Charles, a severe weather system threatening to bring heavy rainfall, powerful wind gusts, and flooding to several regions.
Given the circumstances, European football's governing body determined that conditions were unsuitable for the scheduled matches, prioritizing the safety of players, coaching staff, referees, and supporters.
The decision affects both women's club competitions and international youth national team tournaments.
Which UEFA Matches Were Postponed in Portugal?
Among the affected fixtures is the match between Benfica and Austria Vienna in the Women's Champions League.
The match between União Torreense and Sparta Prague in the Women's Europa Cup has also been postponed.
For now, neither fixture has a confirmed new date, meaning the clubs must wait for official information regarding rescheduling.
The situation has also forced changes to the European youth championship calendar.
When Will the Postponed Matches Be Played?
Unlike the women's club fixtures, four youth international matches have been moved to Thursday, November 12.
In the European Under-17 Championship, the affected fixtures are Portugal vs. Andorra and Bulgaria vs. Serbia.
Meanwhile, in the European Under-19 Championship, the matches between Germany and Sweden and Portugal and Lithuania have also been rescheduled for Thursday.
These adjustments are intended to allow the competitions to continue once weather conditions become more favorable.
Portugal Declares Weather Alert Over Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
The Portuguese government declared a nationwide weather alert across mainland Portugal from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. local time on Wednesday, November 11.
Authorities warned that the storm could cause flooding, fallen trees, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to electricity and communications services.
UEFA has yet to announce new dates for some of the affected fixtures as officials continue to monitor the developing weather situation.
Key Takeaways
- UEFA postponed several matches in Portugal due to Storm Charles.
- Benfica vs. Austria Vienna and União Torreense vs. Sparta Prague remain without confirmed new dates.
- Four matches in the European Under-17 and Under-19 Championships have been rescheduled for Thursday.
- Portugal declared a weather alert due to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of flooding.
- The safety of participants and supporters prompted the changes to the match schedule.
