Hapoel Be'er Sheva's Europa League Match Moved to Germany, Played Without Fans

Hapoel Be'er Sheva's upcoming Europa League away match against Union Saint-Gilloise, scheduled for October 22, will be held in Dusseldorf, Germany, and will be played behind closed doors. The Belgian club typically plays its European matches in Leuven because its home stadium does not meet UEFA requirements. However, following the draw, the mayor of Leuven refused to host the Israeli champions, forcing Union Saint-Gilloise to seek an alternative venue.

The club initially attempted to find a nearby stadium that would allow spectators, but this proved impossible. Consequently, the match will take place in Dusseldorf with no fans in attendance. Hapoel Be'er Sheva expressed regret over the decision, stating, "We are very sorry about the decision and that fans of both teams will not be able to come and support from the stands." The club is in ongoing communication with other clubs that will host them during the league stage, with final details on match locations to be announced later.

Earlier, Union's CEO, Philippe Bormans, had estimated a "good chance the game would be played behind closed doors" after the club failed to secure an alternative stadium in Belgium and explored options in Germany and the Netherlands.