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UEFA Sets Guidelines to Finish Seasons, Wants European Places Determine on 'Sporting Merit'

UEFA is keener on leagues adopting new formats to determine final league places for European qualification if suspended domestic competitions cannot be completed due to government restrictions or financial concerns caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The statement on Thursday opens the door to leagues temporarily adopting playoff formats so qualification for the Champions League and Europa League can be determined on “sporting merit.”

UEFA cautioned that teams could be denied places in Europe if leagues are prematurely halted and “there is a public perception of unfairness.”

Belgium is the only major top-flight so far to announce plans to halt the competition, while the Dutch federation also has plans to cancel the rest of the season.