The 2019/20 Copa del Rey final was supposed to be an extra special one as there would be a Basque derby between Athletic Club and Real Sociedad in Spanish football’s showpiece event.


Sports Livestream ⚽ JOIN NOW for FREE
Instant access to the BT Sport, Sky Sports and Eurosport


However, the coronavirus has pushed the final back from its original April 18 date and it also meant that there was pressure for the final to be played without fans later in the year.

With a Europa League spot on the line for the Copa del Rey winner, the competition would theoretically have to be finished before the start of next season’s UEFA competition and it’s not likely that there will be fans allowed in the stands by then.As such, the two clubs have come together to insist that they are willing to wait, in order for this final to be played in front of the supporters.

“The presidents of Athletic Club and Real Sociedad have agreed to ask the Spanish football federation for the final to be played with fans,” a joint statement from the clubs explained.”The desire of both clubs has always been to play the final with our fans.

“The clubs also asked for guarantees that the competition would still be considered an official title, even if played at a different date on the calendar from normal.