Brazil legend Marta hits out at Copa America conditions

USA Today

a day ago

Brazil women's national team players, including Marta, have hit out at the conditions at the Copa América Femenina in Ecuador.
Players for both Brazil and Bolivia were forced to warm up in a small indoor area prior to Wednesday's game at the Estadio Gonzalo Pozo Ripalda in Quito, rather than on the field.
According to tournament regulations, the measures are being taken to protect the fields prior to doubleheaders.
But after photos of the cramped warm-ups went viral online, Marta said that CONMEBOL needed to do better.
"It's been a long time since I played in a tournament here in South America, and we were saddened by these circumstances," the 39-year-old striker told Globo Esporte.
"Athletes are expected to perform well and work hard, but we also have to demand a high level of organization.
"There wasn't enough space for both teams, but both wanted to prepare. I really don't understand why we can't warm up on the pitch.
"This is a problem for us because it's very hot inside, on top of the altitude. We hope that CONMEBOL changes some things and improves the situation."
Brazil midfielder Ary Borges took direct aim at CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez in her remarks.
"Even amateur matches are better organized than what we have here. Ask Alejandro if he could warm-up in a space measuring five or 10 meters and smelling of paint," she said.
In addition to the warm-up conditions, CONMEBOL has been criticized for a lack of VAR at the tournament.
Brazil coach Arthur Elias echoed his players' concerns over the warm-up conditions.
"We shouldn't have to demand that those responsible for football do their job, just as the players do on the pitch and I do as a coach," he said.
"The issue of warm-ups worries me a lot ... This is crucial for the players' health and for the match, because when both teams don't warm up on the pitch, they take longer to get going."