The quarter-final clash between Arsenal and Real Madrid in the Women's Champions League was overshadowed by criticism of the pitch conditions at Estadio Alfredo di Stefano. Arsenal lost 2-0, with players and analysts, including Ian Wright, expressing outrage over the turf quality affected by heavy rain. Wright notably compared it to a lower-standard venue, reflecting broader concerns in women's football regarding inadequate facilities. Following the match, former player Lucy Ward and Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for better playing surfaces to match the quality of the game and ensure players can perform effectively.
Ian Wright criticized the poor quality of the pitch at Real Madrid, stating it was worse than the recent Derby pitch in the Conti Cup final.
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor highlighted the need for proper facilities, questioning whether a men's final would have been treated the same.
Lucy Ward commented on the pitch conditions, saying players are struggling to perform due to the poor surface quality, impacting their usual skill levels.
Following Arsenal's loss, many in football acknowledged the disparity in playing surfaces, emphasizing the need to match the game’s standard with better facilities.
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