Atlético Madrid Win Appeal Over Real Madrid Game Projectiles

Atlético Madrid have had the three-game partial stadium closure imposed after crowd troubles at last month’s Madrid derby reduced to just one game following an appeal.

The Appeals Committee of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) also agreed on Thursday to lower Atlético’s initial €45,000 ($49,000) fine to €3000 ($3200).

Atlético were punished after fans threw objects onto the pitch during their 1-1 home draw against Real Madrid on Sept. 29 that forced the match to be temporarily suspended.

“This Appeal Committee, appreciating in an appropriate and praiseworthy manner the effort and additional measures adopted by Atlético, considers that, despite this, there are aspects that could have been managed better and measures could have been additionally implemented,” a statement said.

Objects were thrown from the stands behind Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois’ goal in the second half of the match at the Metropolitano stadium, leading to the referee suspending play for more than 15 minutes.

The game then resumed after Atlético players and coach Diego Simeone spoke with supporters.

Atlético permanently banned four fans who were identified as being involved in the incident.

The club condemned the behaviour, and said it was appealing the RFEF’s ban to protect the majority of fans, who were not involved.

The Rojiblancos, however, could face further punishment for the incidents during the derby.