This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
On April 18, Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad were set to face off in the Copa del Rey final in Seville, but the COVID-19 pandemic had other plans. The Spanish soccer association (RFEF) has since announced that it will grant the clubs' request to reschedule the match for a later date when spectators can safely attend.
According to the RFEF, the decision was made in agreement with the presidents of both clubs, who have always wanted their fans to be able to attend the match. 'The trophy with the most prestige and tradition in Spanish football deserves a final with supporters,' said the RFEF in a statement.
Over 25,000 people have died from the novel coronavirus in Spain, but the daily infection rate and death toll have dropped significantly as a result of the country's strict lockdown. Professional athletes were able to train on an individual basis for the first time since the crisis began on Monday, but soccer clubs are not expected to return to training grounds until their players have tested negative for the virus.
The Copa del Rey final is expected to take place in either 2020 or 2021, and the RFEF will take the necessary measures to ensure the match takes place as an official competition.
