UEFA to omit Champions League anthem before Barcelona v Aston Villa

Barcelona’s meeting with Aston Villa at Camp Nou on Tuesday will begin without the Champions League anthem, in an exceptional decision by UEFA.

The match is part of the fourth round of the Champions League league phase. UEFA said the anthem would not be played alongside a minute’s silence to honour Jesus de Miguel Almeida, the 30-year-old Tenerife striker who died on Tuesday after suffering serious injuries during his side’s match against Andorra.

The tribute will also remember the victims of the recent train accident in Orda.

The Champions League anthem is traditionally played before kick-off and is regarded as one of the competition’s defining symbols, recognised by players and supporters alike.