October 4 – The Spanish Football Federation have punished Atletico Madrid with a partial stadium closure for three matches. They have also been handed a fine of $50,000 after crowd trouble halted Sunday’s La Liga game against city rivals, Real Madrid, for almost 20 minutes.
The referee suspended play after objects were thrown at Real goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, from the lower stand at the Metropolitano Stadium. The RFEF has now ordered the partial closure of the lower South end of the stadium where the fans who caused the trouble were located.
The RFEF described the events as “absolutely unacceptable and did not accept Atletico’s allegations concerning previous acts which in no way would be capable of justifying the events that followed.”
In another statement released by La Liga, evidence of various instances of insulting or derogatory language was claimed to have been used. With messages on social media supposedly posted by Atletico supporters that called for fans to wear masks so that they could abuse Real Madrid’s Brazilian superstar, Vinicius Jr with impunity.
No racist abuse of Vinicius Jr was reported by authorities following the game. Atletico in a belated move have also changed statutes so that fans who wear masks to avoid being identified can be immediately expelled from the stadium.
One can only imagine that the hangover caused by this controversy played a huge part in Atletico Madrid’s abysmal performance in the Portugal capital of Lisbon as they were ruthlessly demolished 4-0 by Benfica in the Champions League.
With manager Argentinian legend, Diego Simeone (pictured), already under intense pressure after a sarcastic confrontation with Courtois, this reverse has potentially put him under the greatest scrutiny of his 12-year reign in Madrid. Despite signing an extended contract that will keep him with the club until 2027, no one is immune to miss-steps, and Simeone now looks to have put himself in the line of fire.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1734932972labto1734932972ofdlr1734932972owedi1734932972sni@o1734932972fni1734932972