Real Madrid's La Liga match against Valencia, which was slated to be held on Saturday, has been postponed as flash floods claimed at least 95 lives.
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RFEF has postponed all matches in Valencia provinceThe clubs had requested to postpone the gamesCopa del Rey & Liga F fixtures have also been affectedFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) made the decision after flash floods ravished the Valencia province, killing close to 100 and leaving dozens more unaccounted for. Torrential downpours that began earlier this week have unleashed unprecedented devastation across the region, leading to widespread property damage and disrupting normal life in multiple cities and towns.
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Following a formal request from La Liga, Liga F, and various clubs, the RFEF announced that all professional matches in the affected area would be temporarily suspended to prioritize public safety. In addition to the Real Madrid-Valencia fixture, Villarreal’s game against Rayo Vallecano has also been cancelled. The postponement extends to several matches in the Segunda Division, including Castellon versus RC Ferrol, CD Eldense against SD Huesca, and Malaga’s scheduled visit to Levante. In Liga F, the women’s premier league, Valencia’s match against Deportivo La Coruna and Real Madrid’s clash with Levante have likewise been called off.
WHAT DID THE CLUBS SAY
Valencia released a statement on Thursday that read: "Valencia has received confirmation of the postponement of the La Liga Matchday 12 match, initially scheduled for this Saturday, November 2, due to the severity of the DANA that has left numerous fatalities and affected people in the province of Valencia.
"At this difficult time we wish to express our deepest condolences and our love to the families and friends of the deceased and those affected by this catastrophe that has left us devastated and has put football in the background."
Real Madrid also sent out a statement: "In view of the devastating situation caused by the DANA in many areas of our country, especially in the Comunidad Valenciana, the Real Madrid Foundation and the Cruz Roja have joined forces in a fundraising campaign aimed at supporting those affected.
"This catastrophe has placed many families in a critical situation and it is essential to act quickly and in solidarity. Every contribution can go a long way to helping those who have lost everything."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
In solidarity with those affected by the tragedy, La Liga announced that a moment of silence would be observed before every game this weekend. The league aims to honour the victims and their families during this difficult time and to express its condolences to the communities devastated by the floods. Real Madrid will now get more time to prepare for their UEFA Champions League clash against AC Milan on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu.
