Damage to Celta's stadium puts Real Madrid game in jeopardy
Gale force winds in Galicia tore off a section of the Balaidos roof on Friday, springing fears that further bad weather could see the Celta Vigo - Real Madrid match on Sunday postponed.
The storm currently battering the coast of Galicia in northwestern Spain, which caused the postponement of Deportivo-Betis on Friday night due to damage of Riazor’s roof, has also wreaked havoc at Celta Vigo’s stadium, the venue where Real Madrid are due to play on Sunday (20:45 CET).
A section of Balaídos’ cover (between 10 and 15 meters) has been blown off, triggering members of the police and fire service to rush to the area on Friday. Such was the strength of the wind at that time that they could not tend to the damaged area, instigating fears that the gale could cause further damage.
Weather expected to improve
In principle, if the situation does not worsen then the match between Celta and Real Madrid does not run the risk of being postponed, however if fears are confirmed and the storm drags away more of the awning, then the game could be put in jeopardy.
The effected section is above the away stand where around 30 Real Madrid fans are expected to sit. In addition, heavy rain has also saturated the Balaidos pitch, as was already evident in 2nd half of the Copa del Rey semifinal 1st leg against Alaves on Thursday. Weather forecasts are expected to improve on Sunday, however.