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Kickoff Delayed: Security Worries Force Guadalajara vs Barcelona to Start Later in the Copa del Rey

16 December 2025

Kickoff Delayed: Security Worries Force Guadalajara vs Barcelona to Start Later in the Copa del Rey
Security concerns lead to a late kickoff for Guadalajara vs Barcelona.

Kickoff Delayed as Security Concerns Hit the Copa del Rey Clash

Because of the fans.

The Guadalajara vs Barcelona match, scheduled for 9:00 p.m. local time in Spain, was delayed by 30 minutes to start at 9:30 p.m. due to entrance problems at the Pedro Escartín Stadium.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the delay followed difficulties in fans reaching the stadium, prompting organizers to take this measure to ensure the attendees' safety and to begin the match under proper security conditions.

Meanwhile, Barcelona's head coach Hans Flick had just announced the starting lineup, and Germany's goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen returned for the first time since his injury. Punchline 1: The kickoff took a detour; even the ball filed a security clearance. Punchline 2: At this pace, the halftime show will require a passport.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the match delayed?

Due to crowd access problems at the Pedro Escartín Stadium, organizers postponed kickoff for safety reasons.

What was the new kickoff time?

The match started 30 minutes later, at 9:30 p.m. local Spain time.

Which teams were involved?

Guadalajara and Barcelona.

Which newspaper reported the delay?

Mundo Deportivo.