Police presence to be boosted in Madrid for decisive LaLiga finale

Madrid, May 20 (EFE).- Atlético Madrid or Real Madrid will be crowned the champions of Spain this weekend in a final crunch day of fixtures, prompting authorities in the capital to shore up police presence in anticipation of crowds of fans.

Madrid’s city hall on Thursday said 130 members of the city police would be deployed to the two iconic fountains in the city center where fans traditionally celebrate with their team if they win LaLiga. They will be joined by members of Spain’s national police force.

One of the fountains, Cibeles, is reserved for Real Madrid supporters, and the other, the Fountain of Neptune, just a five minute walk away, for Atlético.

This year’s LaLiga title boils down to the last day, and either one of the Spanish capital’s rivals could walk away with the trophy, although Atlético have the upper hand.

On Saturday, Diego Simeone’s team travels to Valladolid, a team that must beat the Madrid side in order to avoid relegation. Real Madrid, meanwhile, host Villareal, who this year made it to the Europa Cup final.

A win for Atlético against Valladolid would seal the deal, but a shock loss could hand the title to Zinedine Zidane’s men, providing they secure the three points. Barcelona bowed out of the title race last weekend after losing to Celta de Vigo.

Inmaculada Sanz, spokeswoman for security and emergency affairs at Madrid City Hall, told press Thursday that police would be particularly vigilant for public alcohol consumption.

She reminded fans that both Atlético and Real Madrid had already said they would not attend any celebrations at the fountains. EFE

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