Bayern Munich to Play Shakhtar Donetsk in Germany Due to Conflict in Ukraine
Bayern Munich's UEFA Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk will be hosted at Schalke's Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, as a result of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In a significant logistical adjustment, Bayern Munich will face Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League at the Veltins-Arena, home to Schalke 04, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. This decision comes in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has made it unsafe for Shakhtar to host matches in their home country.
The match, originally scheduled to be held in Donetsk, highlights the adaptability and resilience of both clubs amidst challenging circumstances. Schalke 04 has rented out their stadium to accommodate Shakhtar's home matches, providing a neutral yet familiar venue within Germany.
For Bayern Munich, this will not be their first encounter at the Veltins-Arena. The German giants last played there in November 2023, securing a 2-0 victory over Schalke during a Bundesliga fixture.
This arrangement ensures Shakhtar Donetsk can continue participating in the competition while prioritizing the safety of players and fans. It also reflects the broader support within the football community for teams affected by geopolitical issues.