Czech soccer could return June 8 as government slowly reopens businesses

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The Czech Republic's professional soccer leagues could be among the first to restart in Europe after the coronavirus pandemic halted play throughout most of the continent.

The country's health minister, Adam Vojtech, revealed plans on Tuesday to gradually reopen stores and restaurants over the next two months. Then, if there is no upsurge in COVID-19 cases, a later stage of reviving the Czech Republic's economy would involve theaters, other cultural venues, and sporting events reopening for up to 50 people on June 8.

"If all goes well, then I think it realistic to have standard matches played as of June 8, with some technical background," Vojtech told a news conference, according to Reuters.

He added: "I think matches without spectators could be played."

As part of the recovery plan set out by the government, professional athletes would be able to conduct collective training sessions outdoors beginning April 20, albeit under strict conditions and in small groups.

The League Football Association (LFA), which oversees the top two professional tiers of Czech soccer, is desperate to conclude the 2019-20 season. Reigning champions Slavia Prague hold an eight-point cushion atop the First League after 24 matches of a 30-game campaign. Sparta Prague, the country's most successful club, are uncharacteristically in midtable.

"Nothing has changed for us at the moment. We will continue to do the maximum so that this season can be completed on the pitch," LFA chairman Dusan Svoboda said in a statement on the organization's website.

The Czech government announced a state of emergency on March 12, effectively shutting down professional sports in the country. There have been more than 6,000 confirmed coronavirus cases in Czechia, with 161 related deaths.