Already confirmed as LaLiga champions, Los Blancos are now putting their retractable roof to good use in the capital for a final push.
As the Champions League semifinal second leg neared kick-off, a big decision to close the roof of the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu had already been taken. Real Madrid had already shown off their new retractable roof option in another couple of huge games recently – when they played out a stunning 3-3 draw in the Champions League quarter final first leg against Manchester City followed by the first ever Clásico under a closed roof. Next up it was Bayern Munich.
But some observers were puzzled. The temperatures have been rising in the Spanish capital, and the beautiful, glorious sunny days with clear blue skies were with us. So why have Madrid decided to seal their stadium?
Madrid have tried out their retractable roof on a number of occasions this season - in the league games against Atlético, Villarreal and Getafe, as well as the UCL and Clásico clashes. Firstly, to ensure that the mechanical system is in good working order and secondly, as a means of trapping the noise within all four walls and creating a more vibrant, louder atmosphere.
While there is no denying that it is an imposing stadium to play at, in terms of actual match atmosphere, the Bernabéu has always struggled to get the whole crowd rocking. Yes, it gets loud - especially after the club turned the Fondo Sur into a Grada de Animación in 2013, but nowhere near as boisterous as San Mamés, the Metropolitano or even the old Calderón. It’s improved, but sometimes, the atmosphere can be a little flat.
By closing the roof, the noise generated inside the stadium by the 80,000 home fans (new stadium, new capacity) will be amplified -
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