Arsenal’s legend Ian Wright criticized the pitch conditions at Real Madrid, calling it a “disgrace” after Arsenal lost 2-0 in their UEFA Women’s Champions League tie. Wright expressed his concerns on social media stating:

“Watching the Champions League quarter-final … Real Madrid pitch – this is worse than Derby’s pitch the other day in the Conti Cup final. This is a f—ing disgrace, the pitches these girls have to play on.”

The conditions on the pitch had a significant impact on the match, leading to an early goal from Linda Caicedo. Arsenal’s captain Leah Williamson struggled with the ball due to the poor surface. Coach Renee Slegers emphasized that improving pitch standards should be a priority for the women’s game going forward.