LaLiga protocol activated after Camp Nou chanting

The Barça–Espanyol match also played out in the stands at Camp Nou. From the very start, the atmosphere around the stadium was electric, with chants of all kinds, both in support of Barça and against Espanyol. Manolo González’s team felt the pressure from the stands even during the warm-up, with loud booing, and once the ball started rolling, the first chants of “puta Espanyol” were heard as early as the fifth minute.

Most of these chants came from the South Stand, where Barça’s main supporters’ section is located. Ferran Torres’ goals briefly shifted the focus away from Espanyol, but in the 32nd minute the chant “I hate Espanyol” became more widespread. There were also moments in the first half when the chant “anyone who doesn’t bounce is an Espanyol fan” could be heard.

Following these incidents, Barça and LaLiga activated their hate speech protocol, and a message was broadcast over the PA system warning that such chants are prohibited and punishable by law: “The law prohibits and punishes active participation in acts that incite violence, racism, xenophobia, and intolerance in sport.” The message was also displayed on the advertising panels between the first and second tiers of the stands.

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