Sunday’s Madrid derby had to be paused after objects were thrown onto the pitch by Atletico Madrid fans at their Civitas Metropolitano stadium.
Objects, including lighters and plastic bag with items in it, were thrown from supporters behind the goal that Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois — who played for Atletico on loan from Chelsea for three years earlier in his career — was defending in the second half.
The game was initially stopped by Mateo Busquets Ferrer in the 69th minute with players leaving the pitch. That came shortly after Eder Militao had given Madrid the lead with a deflected strike at the other end.
Before play was stopped, the PA system in the stadium said: “If this behaviour does not stop, the game will be suspended.”
The loudspeaker then said: “The game has been suspended for 10 minutes, due to the objects being thrown on the pitch.
“Fans are asked not to throw more objects, if this behaviour does not stop, the game will not be able to be finished.”
Atletico captain Koke, defender Jose Maria Gimenez and then head coach Diego Simeone went over to speak to the fans behind the goal.
Atletico supporters continued bouncing up and down despite the stoppage, with some objects continuing to be thrown. TV cameras also showed several fans wearing masks.
Play eventually restarted from the 69th minute after a delay of approximately 15 minutes.
A La Liga statement on social media during the game read: “Zero tolerance for any act of violence inside or outside our stadiums.”
The game ended 1-1 after Atletico substitute Angel Correa scored in the 96th minute. Atletico midfielder Marcos Llorente was later shown a straight red card by Ferrer for a challenge on Fran Garcia.
(Top photo: Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
