Barcelona’s plan to increase Spotify Camp Nou’s capacity before the crucial Copa del Rey semi-final second leg has faced a setback.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the club will not receive the First Occupancy Licence (phase 1C) in time for the match against Atletico Madrid.
Therefore, the highly anticipated game on Tuesday will take place without the hoped-for expansion to 62,000 spectators, keeping the capacity capped at 45,401.
This limitation comes at a delicate moment as Barcelona attempts to overturn a heavy 4-0 deficit from the first leg at the Metropolitano, making the home atmosphere even more important.
The new goal is to have the licence approved ahead of the La Liga fixture against Sevilla, scheduled for mid-March.
Depending on UEFA’s Champions League scheduling for the round of 16 second leg, the Sevilla match could be played either on Saturday or Sunday.
Barcelona hopes that by then, capacity can be expanded to 62,000, providing a stronger matchday environment as the team competes on multiple fronts.
The report also mentions that beyond the licence issue, Barcelona is working on enhancing the stadium atmosphere.
Approval for the Grada d'Animació in the lower section of the South Stand is being processed separately, and the club has been in discussions with organised fan groups.
The goal is to position them in a way that maximises vocal support within the stadium during the comeback attempt.
