The field of dreams – and the stands around it
This innocuous-looking Estadi Comunal, tucked away at the far end of Andorra la Vella, was the subject of serious controversy in 2014. With Wales due to arrive to start their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, the Andorran FA decided to host at the Estadi Nacional, where debate raged over its artificial 3G pitch and effects on both footballs and footballers.
While locals lobbied to keep the game at home, others tried to have the match moved to Barcelona, where Andorra have played in the past. Having spent around €100 million on Gareth Bale, for example, Real Madrid would not have been happy to see their investment suffer any injury against footballing minnows.
With a capacity deemed too small at under 1,000, the shunned Estadi Comunal only serves to depict the modest nature of the surroundings. Now sharing domestic duties with the Estadi Nacional, the Comunal also hosts fixtures in Andorra’s two leagues, the Primera and Segonó Divisió – local games can only take place in one or the other.
The ground itself consists of one main stand, with the pitch surrounded by a running track. Steep slopes rise on either side, allowing for a dramatic backdrop to brighten up even the most lowly of fixtures.
getting there
Going to the stadium – tips and timings
The Estadi Comunal is a 15min walk along main Avinguda de Salou from town – at one point you’ll have to cut through a farmer’s field to access the small path that leads to the stadium.
Regular bus Expres è stops at the stadium from downtown la Vella but it’s only a short hop.
getting in
Buying tickets – when, where, how and how much
Visiting fans should contact their individual football associations for ticket information and distribution.
The Andorra FA can be contacted on +376 805 830.
Where to Drink
Pre-match beers for fans and casual visitors
There are three main bars around the stadium, the nearest and most notable being L’Estadi (Av Salou 20), a friendly little spot serving superior Basque dishes, with specials chalked up on a board. Beer is served in chilled glasses, and best enjoyed on the side terrace in the shadow of the floodlights.
Just up the slope, at the entrance to the Valira campsite, the restaurant of the same name also has a terrace, and a rustic, two-room interior displaying vintage black-and-white photos of Andorran sport of yesteryear.
Behind the stadium, slightly further out of town, the Asian-themed Buda Espai Andorra is a chic, contemporary lounge bar, restaurant and discothèque where Andorra’s beautiful people go.
