Why was the Atlético Madrid - Real Madrid La Liga match stopped?

With Real Madrid five points ahead and currently holding second place in La Liga, the fixture between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was always going to be intense. That said, there can’t be any justification for fan behavior that’s disruptive enough to cause a delay in the match.

Fans throwing objects at Tibo Courtois brings Madrid derby to a halt

The Madrid derby has lived up to expectations as both teams from the capital battle it out in an effort to draw closer to league leaders FC Barcelona. With Real Madrid leading 1-0 against local rivals Atletico Madrid in the second half of their La Liga match at the Civitas Metropolitano, the teams have been going at it for almost 80 minutes. Sadly, play has been paused because of unacceptable behavior from the home fans.

Following a period of Atleti fans repeatedly throwing objects at Real Madrid keeper Thibaut Courtois, officials have decided to bring the night’s proceedings to a temporary stop. There is of course context here in that the Belgian keeper spent three seasons playing for Atletico after securing a loan move from Chelsea FC. That said, targeting their former shot-stopper can do nothing to cancel out Eder Militao’s 64th-minute strike from close range.

In fairness, Los Blancos have been the dominant side in the match so far with both Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde seeing their attempts denied by Atletico’s current keeper Jan Oblak. That said, Courtois has had his own share of work to do, making an impressive save in the first half as well to keep the scoreline level. Interestingly, there’s been nothing of note from Real Madrid’s talisman-elect, Vinicius Jr.