Fan support never in doubt for behind-closed-doors game

Valencia CF's task in the Champions League Last 16 second leg against Atalanta was made more difficult by the absence of fans inside Mestalla, part of a measure taken in reaction to the global coronavirus outbreak. Despite this, several hundred supporters were present outside the ground, and innovative ways to motivate the players were used.

Although no fans were permitted entry to Mestalla, a giant banner was unfurled inside the stadium with the message: “Els nostres cors i ànimes sempre estan a Mestalla. Sempre AMUNT” ("Our hearts and support will always be at Mestalla. AMUNT always."). There was also a selection of video messages played on the video screens at the ground, collecting phrases sent in by fans to the club's social media accounts this week. Chants were also played on the loudspeaker system.

Whilst Valencia CF would bow out of the Champions League for 2019/20, the support that the fans have for the team -even in their absence- was never in doubt.