Brazilian players, including six-time FIFA Player of the Year Malta, have expressed their frustration with the organizers of the female Copa America in Ecuador for requiring that teams warm up in a confined indoor space instead of on the field.
Pictures shared on social media before Brazil’s dominant victory over Bolivia in their second Group B match on Tuesday showed players from both squads preparing side by side in a cramped area of Gonzalo Pozoli Pariparda Stadium.
The decision was made according to tournament guidelines to protect the pitch, which is scheduled to host two matches in one day during the group stage.
Malta, who came out of retirement to compete in this tournament, voiced her discontent with the arrangement.
The 39-year-old forward told Brazilian news outlet Globo Esporte, “Athletes are expected to perform at their best, but high-level organizations must also meet their responsibilities. We didn’t have sufficient space for both teams, yet we all needed to prepare. I genuinely don’t understand why we couldn’t warm up on the field.”
“This situation is problematic for us, especially considering the heat at this altitude. I hope Commerball will address these issues to enhance conditions,” she added.
Coach Arthur Elias echoed Malta’s sentiments, stressing that the inadequate warm-up conditions present a risk to player safety.
“There’s no need for the football manager to micromanage, as I do as a coach, just like the players on the pitch,” he stated. “The warm-up concern greatly worries me because it’s crucial for player health and the game overall. If both teams aren’t able to warm up on the field, it takes extra time to get going.”
Midfielder Ally Borge criticized Commerball President Alejandro Dominguez, pointing out the disparity in organization between men’s and women’s tournaments.
“Even amateur matches are better organized than what we’re experiencing here. Ask Alejandro if he would warm up in a 5-10 meter space filled with paint fumes,” she remarked. “We witnessed men’s Copa America with substantial infrastructure; why must women’s tournaments endure these challenges? It’s something he needs to address as president. We deserve better.”
Conmebol has yet to respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
Fan Take: This situation highlights the ongoing disparities in support and logistics for women’s soccer compared to men’s. It underscores the need for greater investment and attention to the women’s game, which could lead to a more equitable and competitive sport overall.
