Rain forces Levante v Athletic Bilbao postponement 30 minutes before kick-off

Levante’s La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao was postponed shortly before kick-off after heavy rain left the pitch at the Ciutat de Valencia unplayable.

The match had been scheduled for 21:30 local time (22:30 in Cairo), but the decision was taken after a meeting at the stadium involving the match officials, La Liga representatives and both clubs. No new date has been announced.

The players completed their usual warm-up before the conditions deteriorated. Heavy rain began falling in Valencia around 30 minutes before the planned start, accompanied by strong winds, and quickly left the playing surface unsuitable for the game.

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) had issued an orange warning for heavy rainfall in Valencia province.

Sunshine and cloud had alternated over the city during the day, but the sudden downpour soaked the small number of supporters already inside the stadium. Although the Ciutat de Valencia has a roof covering all of its stands, the volume of rain was so great that everything became wet.

The tunnel leading to the pitch was also completely flooded, further preventing the fixture from going ahead.

Athletic Bilbao are due to face Alaves next Saturday, while Levante are scheduled to travel to Villarreal on Sunday.