For any footballer, playing in an iconic stadium is the dream of an entire career. Real Madrid, one of the biggest clubs in the world, has let a lot of time pass without opening its main stadium to the women's team.
Women's Barça has supported women's soccer by opening Camp Nou on several occasions. This gesture has been a turning point in the visibility and recognition of women's soccer in Spain.
The Difference with Other Clubs
The difference in treatment between women's and men's teams is not new in world soccer. Athletic Club, Valencia CF, and Levante have opened San Mamés, Mestalla, and Estadi Ciutat de València for their female players.
These gestures not only make women's sports more visible but also demonstrate the institutions' support for gender equality in sports.
Real Madrid, despite its immense history and economic power, has yet to do the same. This gap is what has led the club's players, like Athenea, to dream of what has not yet been achieved: playing at Bernabéu.
Athenea del Castillo: A Personal Dream
In an interview with tiktoker Lucii LBA, Athenea expressed her great desire to play at Santiago Bernabéu. The player expressed it clearly: "I still have a dream to fulfill, and it's to play at Bernabéu." A personal desire that resonates with many players who, like Athenea, aspire to make history.
Florentino Pérez: The Man Who Can Fulfill the Dream?
Real Madrid's president, Florentino Pérez, holds the key to making this dream come true. He has been essential in the transformation and growth of the club, both in its men's and women's teams. However, the opening of Bernabéu to women's soccer is still pending.
On many occasions, the lack of resources and logistics have been excuses for not organizing these matches in Spain's largest stadium. Nevertheless, with the growing popularity of women's soccer, there is no doubt that the moment to take the step is closer than ever.
Women's soccer continues to grow by leaps and bounds, and it is increasingly visible in the media and in the hearts of fans. Supporting this sport benefits the players and promotes equality and inclusion in sports. Playing at Santiago Bernabéu would not only be an honor for Real Madrid's female players but also a giant step for all women's soccer.