Arsenal Requests UEFA Pitch Inspection Before Atletico Tie

Arsenal's ground staff requested a UEFA inspection of the pitch at Atletico Madrid's Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium hours before the first leg of their Champions League semifinal on Wednesday evening, prompting concerns that the grass length could favor the hosts.

Approximately two hours before kickoff, Arsenal personnel measured the turf and asked UEFA officials to verify its condition, suspecting it exceeded regulations. UEFA determined the grass stood at 26 millimeters, within the permitted range of 21 to 30 millimeters and consistent with the pitch's state during Atletico's quarterfinal match against Barcelona at the same venue. The complaint stemmed from worries that longer grass might slow the ball's movement, potentially benefiting Atletico's defensive style under manager Diego Simeone.

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, reporting for CBS Sports, described the incident shortly before the match. "Arsenals ground staff came in thinking the grass is too high. They were not happy with it. They asked UEFA to actually measure it," Balague said. He noted the measurement matched prior games and dismissed suggestions of deliberate manipulation.