Pitch conditions criticized during Champions League quarter-final

Beth Mead, a player for Arsenal, has criticized the poor condition of the pitch at Real Madrid's Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium during their recent Champions League quarter-final match. Arsenal lost 2-0, but the main focus has been on the unsafe playing surface, which Mead described as "not good enough" for women's football. Mead pointed out that if it were a men's Champions League match, such pitch conditions would not be acceptable. She highlighted a serious incident where Real Madrid’s Melanie Leupolz slipped and suffered a potentially severe knee injury because of the pitch. Arsenal's manager, Renee Slegers, agreed that the pitch contributed to their defeat. The criticism extended beyond the players. Arsenal legend Ian Wright called the pitch a "disgrace," and the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) raised concerns about player safety and quality of play. They emphasized that world-class players deserve better playing conditions. Mead also noted that this issue has been seen in other recent games, including the Continental Cup final which took place at Derby County's Pride Park. She expressed hope for improvements in the future, stating that while women's football is progressing, there are still barriers to address. Arsenal is set to face Real Madrid again at their home ground, the Emirates Stadium, where Mead believes they can turn the result around. Arsenal will need to score multiple goals to overcome their current deficit. In response to the pitch situation, Slegers acknowledged the challenges posed by the poor conditions but remained optimistic about their chances in the second leg. Meanwhile, Sky Sports News reporter Anton Toloui criticized the decision to play the match at the state of the pitch, questioning the message it sends regarding player safety and the quality of women's football.