English Football League criticizes UEFA over fixture clashes

The English Football League (EFL) has accused UEFA of an “unwillingness to cooperate” after a scheduling conflict with the Champions League forced the rescheduling of several domestic fixtures.

The dispute arose when UEFA scheduled a Champions League match between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid for September 9. This created a logistical conflict because local policing requirements prevent both Everton and Liverpool from hosting home matches on the same evening. Despite attempts by the EFL to negotiate alternatives, UEFA declined to move the Champions League fixture, citing the potential impact on traveling international supporters.

As a result, the EFL was forced to rearrange matches involving five clubs. The rescheduled fixtures include the Carabao Cup tie between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, which moved to September 16, and Liverpool’s match against Tottenham Hotspur, which was brought forward to September 15. Additionally, a Championship match between Wolves and Portsmouth has been moved to October 20.

The EFL expressed frustration that the expansion of UEFA club competitions continues to pressure domestic calendars without adequate consultation with national leagues.