EFL accuses UEFA over fixture clash forcing domestic rescheduling

The English Football League has accused UEFA of an unwillingness to cooperate after the European governing body's scheduling of a Champions League match forced the EFL to rearrange three domestic fixtures, including a Carabao Cup tie. The conflict arose when UEFA announced on August 29 that Liverpool would host Atlético Madrid at Anfield on September 9, the same evening Everton was scheduled to play Wolverhampton Wanderers in the same competition. Due to logistical and policing requirements, Everton and Liverpool cannot host home matches on the same night. The EFL stated it had confirmed the Everton vs. Wolves third-round tie for September 9 with local stakeholders before UEFA's announcement. Following the publication of the Champions League schedule, the EFL met with UEFA officials on September 1 to seek a solution. However, the European body declined to reschedule the Liverpool match, citing the significant number of supporters who may have already arranged international travel and accommodation for the fixture. As a result, the EFL was compelled to make changes to its calendar. The Everton vs. Wolves tie has been moved to Wednesday, September 16.