Arsenal question Atlético setup before Champions League semi-final

Arsenal asked UEFA to inspect the pitch at Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg, raising concerns over the length of the grass shortly before kickoff. The Premier League side were understood to consider that the surface could slow the tempo of the game.

Atleti get length spot on

UEFA officials carried out a measurement and found the grass to be 26mm, comfortably within the governing body’s permitted range of 21mm to 30mm. With no breach of regulations identified, the pitch was approved and the match went ahead as planned without any requirement for changes.

The issue had already surfaced earlier this month when FC Barcelona visited Madrid. Head coach Hansi Flick was seen raising concerns about the grass with UEFA officials during training, although no formal complaint was lodged. UEFA nevertheless checked the surface on that occasion and found it compliant, mirroring the outcome of Arsenal’s request.

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