During the 1980s and 1990s, Balaídos was a very different stadium from the modern venue we see today. It was a fortress for Real Club Celta de Vigo, filled with passionate fans who turned every match into an unforgettable spectacle. Though lacking many of the modern amenities seen in today’s football stadiums, Balaídos had a unique charm that made it one of Spain’s most iconic football grounds.

In the 1980s, the stadium had a raw and rugged feel, with its concrete stands and simple infrastructure. There were no fancy VIP areas or high-tech facilities—just thousands of devoted supporters packed into the stands, chanting and waving their flags. The atmosphere was electric, especially during crucial matches against big LaLiga teams. Fans in the famous Grada de Río and Marcador sections created an intimidating environment for visiting teams.

The 1990s brought some improvements, as Spanish football entered a more modern era. The stadium saw structural updates, including new seating arrangements and better safety measures. However, the heart and soul of Balaídos remained the same. It was in this decade that Celta de Vigo began to establish itself as a strong LaLiga side, with players like Alexander Mostovoi and Valery Karpin becoming club legends.

Despite its lack of luxury, Balaídos in the 80s and 90s was a place of pure football passion. It was not just a stadium—it was a symbol of pride for Vigo and its people, a place where history was written one match at a time.