Why Barcelona could win La Liga title in front of no fans! Reaction to Antony goal leaves Espanyol facing stadium ban ahead of Catalan derby

The Blaugrana hold a four-point lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid as things stand. Another Clasico clash is due to take place on Sunday - after Barca have faced Inter in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.

If Hansi Flick’s side were to secure bragging rights and three points against Real, then they would be one win away from confirming their coronation as the kings of Spanish football. They could get over that line against Espanyol on May 15.

There may be no fans in attendance for that contest. That is because Espanyol supporters took to throwing lighters at Brazilian forward Antony after seeing him net a last-gasp winner for Real Betis at RCDE Stadium. The game was halted, with an announcement made that it would not continue until the incidents stopped.

Espanyol were punished due to similar behaviour from their fans during a 2-1 defeat to Villarreal in October 2024. A cup was thrown at match referee Alejandro Quintero Gonzalez, which bounced off his chest. The Catalan outfit were handed a €3,000 fine and a one-game suspended stadium ban. It was made clear to Espanyol that further misdemeanours would lead to turnstiles being closed for one fixture. If that threat is followed through, then no fans will be in attendance for a derby date with Barca.

Barcelona won the Liga title at Espanyol in 2023, leading to home supporters invading the pitch. A stadium ban was imposed back then, with similar sanctions now on the cards as authorities in Spain decide what to do next and how quickly to impose any sanctions.