The electric atmosphere ahead of the Champions League semi-final between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona was marked by an unusual incident. During the night, fireworks were set off near the hotel where the Catalan side was staying, disturbing the calm before the much-anticipated match.
The incident occurred around 1:15 a.m. near the luxury hotel “Domaine Reine Margot” in Issy-les-Moulineaux, in the Paris metropolitan area. The episode was broadcast live by a Spanish journalist from the programme El Chiringuito, who reported the explosions heard near Barcelona’s accommodation.
The fireworks continued for a short time, while the identity of those responsible has not been made known. Similar incidents have occurred in the past before major European matches, when fans of rival teams have attempted to disrupt the players’ rest on the eve of important fixtures.
The incident has added to the tension before the clash between two of the most discussed teams in European football but, according to reports, there were no consequences that would call into question the progress of the match. French authorities have confirmed that the game will be played as scheduled.