The English Football League (EFL) match scheduled for Friday was postponed, but tributes were paid before and during all European matches involving the British side on Thursday.
Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, died Thursday at the age of 96 after 70 years on the throne, Buckingham Palace announced.
The football world paid tribute to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday.
Manchester United’s Europa League match against Real Sociedad was followed by a minute’s silence before kick-off and the players wearing black armbands.
“Tonight’s UEFA Europa League clash with Real Sociedad will proceed as scheduled at Old Trafford, following directives from the FA and UEFA,” Manchester United said in a statement.
“A minute’s silence will be held before kick-off which will allow the teams, match officials and everyone in attendance to pay their respects to Her Majesty, The Queen. Both teams will wear black armbands and the flags at Old Trafford will fly at half-mast as a sign of our utmost respect.”
Shortly after the Queen’s obituary was announced, Arsenal held a minute’s silence before the second half of their European league match against FC Zurich.
UEFA President Alexander Ceferin said: “UEFA and European football are truly saddened by the passing away of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, one of the world’s most-respected figures. Our thoughts are with her family and the President of the English Football Association, Prince William, as well as with the citizens of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth realms.”
The EFL has announced that both games scheduled for Friday will be postponed as mark of respect. Burnley were due to host Norwich City in the Championship, while Tranmere Rovers are in stock in the Second Division. They were scheduled to play against Port County.
The EFL said a decision on this weekend’s games will be made on Friday.
EFL’s statement written that “A determination regarding the remainder of this weekend’s scheduled fixtures will be made following a review of the official mourning guidance, in addition to further consultation with DCMS and other sports on Friday morning.”
Other sporting events in the UK have already started postponing, but a similar decision is expected to be made on Friday for this weekend’s Premier League matches.
The Premier League said in a statement: “deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and condolences are with The Royal Family and everyone around the world mourning the loss of Her Majesty.”
