Virus impacts opening round of AFC’s Asian Champions

The coronavirus will have an impact on the opening week of the Asian Champions League despite the absence of Chinese clubs.
The champions from South Korea and Japan meet in the opening round tomorrow, when extra precautions will mean that any fans wanting to watch Jeonbuk Motors against Yokohama F. Marinos will have to wear masks and have a temperature of under 37.5 Celsius to enter the Jeonju stadium.
Mainland China yesterday reported another rise in cases of the new virus.
The Asian Football Confederation announced after an emergency meeting last week that because of the spread of the virus, the first three games for three Chinese clubs — Shanghai SIPG, Guangzhou Evergrande and Shanghai Shenhua — will be postponed.
“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,” AFC General Secretary Windsor John 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.” AP