Rabiot and Vinicius Junior criticize pitch conditions at MetLife Stadium
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 5:06 PM
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
During the ongoing FIFA World Cup, France midfielder Adrien Rabiot and Brazil's Vinicius Junior expressed concern over the pitch quality at MetLife Stadium. Rabiot described the surface as 'hard and rigid,' questioning its suitability for the tournament. Vinicius also noted issues with the pitch drying out quickly during Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco. France coach Didier Deschamps commented on the challenges associated with the playing surface. FIFA responded, emphasizing their commitment to pitch quality and stating that the surfaces meet elite competition standards.
- •Rabiot criticized the MetLife Stadium pitch after France's win over Senegal.
- •Vinicius noted the pitch hampered Brazil's rhythm against Morocco.
- •Deschamps highlighted difficulties caused by the grass surface's condition.
- •FIFA stated that pitch conditions were assessed and met quality standards.
- •The World Cup continues with more matches scheduled at various venues.
- 5:06 PMYahoo Sports — France and Brazil stars criticize World Cup stadium's 'hard' and 'dry' pitch
"France midfielder Adrien Rabiot has criticized the MetLife Stadium pitch quality at the FIFA World Cup, an issue also raised by Brazil star Vinicius Junior and France coach Didier Deschamps
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