Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of the pitch at the Metropolitano stadium ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. This follows his earlier complaints about officiating.
Flick was reportedly upset with a disallowed penalty claim for a handball and also voiced his concerns about the pitch condition to UEFA match delegate Christian Kofoed during Barcelona’s training session on Monday evening.
UEFA Addresses Grass Length Concerns
Following a meeting between officials from both clubs on Tuesday morning, UEFA assured Barcelona that the grass at the Metropolitano would be maintained at the required 30mm length and adequately watered for the match, as reported by MD. Measurements taken on Wednesday indicated the grass was at 26mm.
Marca reports that the grass was mowed after Barcelona’s training on Monday and is expected to be cut again before the game. Atletico Madrid reportedly views this as a tactic to exert pressure on UEFA.
Sixth Encounter Between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona This Season
This upcoming match marks the sixth time the two teams will face each other this season. Barcelona has secured three victories, while Atletico Madrid has won two. Barcelona won both their La Liga encounters, though Atletico reportedly rested players. The aggregate score between the two teams this season stands at 8-8.
Atletico Madrid may feel they have had the upper hand in their matchups, having eliminated Barcelona from the Copa del Rey and holding a strong position in the Champions League. Regardless of the outcome of the second leg, the winner of this quarter-final tie will undoubtedly claim significant bragging rights.
