Football in Spain is not completely suspended after the tragic train accident that left at least 60 dead in the province of Toledo. While the Royal Spanish Football Federation decided to postpone all Copa del Rey matches as a sign of respect and mourning, Real Sociedad will continue playing its UEFA Europa League match against Turkish side Fenerbahçe, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in Zubieta.
The collision between two trains, which occurred this morning in the Toledo area, has shocked the country and caused the cancellation of national meetings. The RFEF, in a gesture of solidarity with the affected families, declared the suspension of cup matches. However, UEFA, which organizes the European competition, left the calendar unchanged, which has generated criticism for the apparent lack of sensitivity in the face of a tragedy of such magnitude.
Real Sociedad, led by Gorka Álvarez, confirmed to the media that their duel with Fenerbahçe will take place as planned. The San Sebastian club has made it clear that the decision to play depends on UEFA guidelines, which has not modified the agenda of the international matchday. Thus, the San Sebastian team will appear at the Zubieta stadium to face the Turkish team on an afternoon marked by national sadness.
The clash between Real Sociedad and Fenerbahçe will be the only high-level football event that will be played on Spanish territory that day. While fans in the capital and other cities in the country wait for confirmation of the official death toll, the Zubieta stadium is preparing to receive fans of both teams. Real Sociedad, which has played in the European tournament on several occasions, hopes to advance in the group stage and continue competing for a place in the next round.
UEFA's decision to keep the match on the agenda has generated debate about the priority of international commitments over national events. While the RFEF opted for the postponement as a gesture of respect, the European competition remains on its feet, which has been perceived by some as a lack of tact. Despite the controversy, Real Sociedad will continue with its sporting commitment and will face Fenerbahçe in a context of great tension and respect for the tragedy in Toledo.