Barcelona pessimistic about green light for Camp Nou capacity increase in time for Atletico Madrid clash | OneFootball

Barcelona’s preparations for the decisive Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid have been complicated by uncertainty off the pitch. 

According to a fresh report from Mundo Deportivo, permission to reopen the North Stand at Spotify Camp Nou may not arrive in time for the high-stakes encounter.

The club is currently awaiting the 1C permit from the Barcelona City Council, which would allow capacity to increase to 62,000 spectators. 

Without this approval, the North Stand, also known as Gol Nord, will remain closed for the semi-final clash.

In an effort to move the process forward, Dekra – the body authorised by the City Council to assess stadium safety, access points and emergency systems – carried out another inspection of the facilities this week. 

However, optimism inside the club appears limited. In fact, reports suggest Barcelona are pessimistic about receiving the green light before Atletico Madrid’s visit.

Why the delay?

The delay reportedly centres on specific access details linked to the North Stand. 

Barcelona are facing delays. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While no major structural concerns have been raised, bureaucratic and safety adjustments are still under review. 

Should the permit not arrive in time, the league fixture against Sevilla on March 15 could become the next realistic target for reopening.

Complicating matters further, the Supporters’ Stand is undergoing a separate licensing process. 

Despite these hurdles, Barcelona are determined to ensure a strong atmosphere against Atletico Madrid, where Barcelona have a mountain to climb after a 0-4 defeat in the first leg. 

Club officials are actively exploring temporary solutions that would allow organised supporters to occupy an alternative area inside the stadium.

Given what is at stake, Barça know the importance of home support in knockout football. 

Even if the North Stand remains closed, the objective is to create the same intensity and backing that has historically defined big nights at Camp Nou.