By Victor Kanayo
Concerns have continued to mount as players, coaches, and fans express frustration over scorching heat oppressing many at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup in the United States of America.
Due to the unhealthy development, there have been calls for additional cooling breaks and adjustments to match schedules.
Midday kick-off temperatures in Pasadena at the weekend approached 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 Fahrenheit), forcing players in the Paris St Germain v Atletico Madrid match to dig in early as the midday sun blazed on the Rose Bowl’s uncovered stands and pitch, Reuters reported.
Atletico’s Marcos Llorente described the conditions as “terribly hot”, saying, “my toes were sore, my nails were hurting… it’s incredible.”
Attendees at the Rose Bowl complained of long queues in harsh heat, limited shaded areas and water restrictions at entry, with some leaving at half-time due to dehydration and fear of fainting.
Similar mid-afternoon kick-off conditions are planned for upcoming matches, stoking safety concerns for supporters and players.
Monday’s match in Pasadena was not an isolated incident.
Miami and Los Angeles are experiencing temperatures north of 30 °C (86 °F), many rising above the 32 °C heat-stress threshold, triggering warnings from player unions.
