El Collao gets handsome

Alcoy has been confined for almost two weeks. The city is closed perimeter. The Police guard the entrance and exit accesses to the town. COVID-19 cases in Alcoy exceed 1,000 per 100,000 inhabitants and the situation is worrying.

In the midst of social depression, Real Madrid arrives at El Collao. The magic of the Cup will be experienced this year from TV or from nearby balconies to the stadium because the game is played behind closed doors. The Collao, with a capacity for 4,800 spectators, will not be able to roar as usual. Yes they will a lucky few who live in the buildings near the stadium and that they have unbeatable views. Yes, curfew is at 22:00 and the owners will not be able to invite anyone to watch the entire game from their terrace.

Despite the circumstances, Alcoyano has decided to make an effort and make their old stadium beautiful. The club has been working on a facelift for days to give a good image on television. In the background, the seats have been removed to leave only the cement and give it a coat of paint. The press area has also been cleaned up and the entire stadium has been lovingly cleaned.

“We have not made a reform to use, but we have wanted to give it a facelift to give a good image on television. It is an important game for Alcoyano's history and we want to look good with Madrid's visit “, says Fernando Ovidio, manager of Alcoyano.

One of the aspects that may concern Zidane is the state of the pitch. In Alcoy it is cold, especially at night since the temperatures drop below 0 degrees. The grass is very soft and in some areas, especially on the side, there is a lot of mud. Madrid will not find a carpet.