Tensions rise as car strikes group of fans before Espanyol vs Barcelona kickoff

Derbies between these two Catalan rivals are often intense both on and off the pitch. Minutes before kick-off at the RCDE Stadium, a serious incident unfolded just outside the ground.

A vehicle struck a group of supporters gathered near the stadium in one sudden movement. Journalist Alvaro Borrego of El Desmarque captured the moment when a Peugeot violently hit the fans standing in the street.

Catalunya Radio reports that 13 people suffered minor injuries after allegedly being hit by a female driver. Meanwhile, COPE revealed that the driver accidentally ran over a young woman who became trapped beneath the vehicle. Witnesses rushed to move the car and free her, but the driver then accelerated again, hitting several more people.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with up to seven ambulances arriving at the scene to tend to the injured. Inside the stadium, the public address system informed fans of the incident: "Attention: We report that the collision outside the stadium is under control and there are no serious injuries."

Following the announcement, referee Cesar Soto Grado halted the match after consulting both captains and approached the sideline to speak with the Mossos d'Esquadra about the extent of the accident, before deciding to resume play.

The driver was taken into custody, and the Catalan police confirmed that the collision was unintentional.