According to reports, concerns have escalated following incidents during Espanyol’s match against Real Betis (1-2) on Sunday at the RCDE Stadium, which has been under threat of closure since September. The next match at this stadium is the derby against Barcelona next Thursday.

The delay in the referee’s report was due to the sensitivity of the matter, as Espanyol’s stadium was already under scrutiny due to fan misconduct. In the 92nd minute of the match against Betis, after Anthony’s winning goal for Betis, three lighters were thrown from the stands behind the goal. These objects, reported by Betis goalkeeper Adrián San Miguel, did not hit anyone but were collected by the referee, who spoke with the captains, a police officer, stadium security, and coaches (Manolo González and Manuel Pellegrini).

The relevant protocol was activated, and an announcement was made over the loudspeaker that the match would not continue until the throwing of objects stopped. Fortunately, the match ended without further incident, but this event could have serious consequences for Espanyol, who had not lost at home since October.

The referee’s report confirmed that the lighters were thrown from the stands of Espanyol fans, identifiable by their attire and chants. This incident could lead to the stadium being closed, especially given previous history. Last season, after fans stormed the pitch in the match against Barcelona (May 14, 2023), which ended in a 4-2 defeat for Espanyol and Barcelona’s title win, the stadium was closed for one match. Now, with a repeat offense, the risk of the derby being played without spectators is serious.