Villarreal’s LaLiga match against Espanyol has been postponed, sparking anger among fans.
The Yellow Submarine was scheduled to play against Espanyol at Estadio de la Cerámica tonight.
Villarreal aimed to narrow the gap to the top four, while Espanyol sought to strengthen their LaLiga position.
However, recommendations to postpone the match were made due to flood risks.
Fans had already entered the stadium for the scheduled 8pm local time kick-off.
They were then asked to leave the stadium after the game was supposed to start, as announced on the big screen.
The message stated: “Due to weather alert, we ask spectators to leave the stadium calmly and follow the instructions of security personnel.”
Fan anger was evident in social media videos, with audible booing.
Rain had begun and was expected to intensify.
Reports indicate stadium loudspeakers confirmed the match suspension to the fans.
Villarreal confirmed the decision on social media, stating:
“Due to safety recommendations because of the risk of flooding from current weather conditions in Castellón.
“The Judge of Professional Competitions has decided to postpone today’s match between Villarreal CF and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona, scheduled for 9pm CET.”
Villarreal president Fernando Roig Alfonso was seen on the field making a phone call.
Espanyol released a statement to fans thanking them for their support despite the cancellation.
It read: “We want to wish our fans a safe and happy return home.
“We deeply regret this. Thank you for always being there.”
Espanyol players applauded their travelling fans, and Villarreal players did the same for their supporters.
Fans expressed their frustration on social media, upset about the late notice after travelling to the match.
One fan commented: “They could have warned before all those people traveled, this doesn’t make sense.”
Another wrote: “Let’s see who pays for my gasoline now on this evening up and down.”
A third added: “I hope you start looking for free buses for all of us, for the next trip to Villarreal, first of all.”
