The Barcelona players, who were celebrating their LaLiga title on Sunday, were forced to make a hasty exit after Espanyol fans invaded the pitch and started running towards them.
After Barça’s 4-2 victory, a large number of Espanyol supporters rushed onto the field from the ‘ultra’ fan section behind the goal, towards the players who were singing and celebrating in the center circle.
– Marsden: Xavi reaches Cruyff, Pep level with LaLiga win
– Stream on ESPN+: Liga, Bundesliga and more (US)
Security immediately intervened to ensure the safety of players and club officials. Some of the guards confronted the fans but were forced back into the tunnel. Riot police had to stand in front of the tunnel entrance with shields to prevent fans from chasing the players.
The supporters threw chairs and other objects, then dispersed without incident.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández tried to get his players into the locker room even before the fans had a chance to act.
“It was a moment of celebration and an uplifting feeling. It was normal, but we weren’t home and at some point it felt more respectful to be back in the locker room. he said.
Espanyol have apologized for what happened during the Barcelona derby at the RCDE stadium.
“We should always condemn violence in all aspects of our lives,” said Espanyol coach Luis Garcia. “We did everything we could to prevent something like this from happening, but it just wasn’t possible.”
Barcelona won with four games left to clinch their first league title since 2019. The loss left Espanyol second from bottom.