Barcelona held 0-0 by Madrid amid separatist protest at Camp Nou

BARCELONA, Spain — Barcelona and Real Madrid played out a 0-0 draw for the first time in 17 years on Wednesday in a politically supercharged “clasico” match played amid a large separatist protest that turned violent outside Camp Nou stadium.

The game inside the stadium was completed without any major incidents — either on the field or in the stands. But in the streets outside, a detachment of riot police clashed with protesters soon after the start, and plastic trash cans were set on fire. The smell of smoke from the streets outside reached the stands in the final minutes of the match.

The draw left teams locked on atop the Spanish both points league with Barcelona in front on goal difference. It was the first scoreless match between the fierce rivals since November 2002.

Despite concerns by police that the protesters could also try to delay or interrupt the match, both teams arrived safely and on time to the stadium escorted by a heavy police detail. Fears of a pitch invasion by protesters in the stands also proved unfounded.

Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said he was pleased with both the performance and the fact that the game went ahead despite the abnormal circumstances.

“Everything went well for Barca and for Real Madrid, and for football,” Zidane said. “So we can all be happy.”

Play was held up around a minute shortly after halftime when some spectators threw dozens of inflatable beach balls on the side of the pitch while shouting “independence.” Stewards quickly cleared them away.

Madrid, however, took the initiative by trying to take advantage of its superior height and bombarded the box with crosses. Pique cleared Madrid’s best opportunity, a header from Casemiro in the 17th.

The second half was one of the tamest between the fierce rivals in recent memory. Neither generated much in attack. And even Messi was off key when he scuffed a shot from close range.

As smoke wafted down, the tension shifted from the pitch to the clashes outside. The match ended with an eerie silence. There were no cheers and the tradition of playing the hymn was forgone.