Derby Dilemma: La Liga's Bold Pivot Ahead of Barcelona vs Espanyol

Derby Security Drive-By Scheduling

Espanyol lodged an official request to La Liga to move the Catalonia derby with Barcelona to 6:15 p.m. on Saturday evening, instead of the current 9:00 p.m. local time in Spain, hoping to ease the tension and security pressures surrounding the clash.

According to the Spanish newspaper AS, Espanyol justified the request by concerns over crowd gatherings and late-night travel, especially since the match is among the most high-tension fixtures in La Liga.

Despite these requests, La Liga decided to keep the original kickoff time at 9:00 p.m., at the Cornella-El Prat stadium.

The match is expected to feature tightened security measures amid concerns over fan tensions surrounding the derby.

Barcelona sits top of La Liga with 46 points, while Espanyol are fifth on 33 points, though the latter have played one fewer game.

Security is so tight officials may request a quiet 'shh' from the stands—minimize drama, maximize drama-free points, right? If not, at least the snacks will be safe.