The high-profile La Liga match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was temporarily suspended on Sunday due to crowd trouble at the Civitas Metropolitano stadium.
Referee Mateo Busquets halted play in the 69th minute, shortly after Real Madrid had taken a 1-0 lead through Eder Militao. Supporters behind Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois’ goal hurled multiple objects onto the pitch, including lighters and a plastic bag containing an unknown substance.
Both teams were ordered back to their dressing rooms as officials attempted to restore order. Atletico players Jose Maria Gimenez and Koke, along with manager Diego Simeone, approached the stands to appeal for calm.
The ultras responsible for the disruption were seen wearing masks to conceal their identities. Spanish media had previously reported concerns about potential troublemaking, particularly targeting Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior, who has been subjected to racial abuse in the past.
La Liga had issued a statement on Saturday condemning a “hate campaign” and threatening legal action against those promoting racist behavior. “LaLiga vigorously condemns these actions that – directly or indirectly – encourage, promote and incite hatred against an individual, in this case, the player Vinicius Junior, because of his race,” the statement read.
Stadium announcements warned fans that continued misbehavior could result in the match’s premature end. After a 36-minute delay, play resumed at 22:45 local time.
A La Liga spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing situation, said: “We are working closely with both clubs and local authorities to identify those responsible for this unacceptable behavior. There will be consequences for these actions.”
