Zico complained about condition of the artificial turf at the Stadium of Singapore

The Brazil legend states that the artificial turf used at Jalan Besar Stadium is not fit for World Cup qualifiers matches.


By Eric Noveanto

Iraq national team coach who is also Brazilian legend, Zico, criticized the condition of the artificial turf at Jalan Besar Stadium field in Singapore on the sidelines before a game between Singapore against Iraq in World Cup qualifier September 6.

Shortly after trying artificial turf from the stadium to be used on the upcoming match, the impression given by Zico was not too positive. According to Zico, who used artificial turf at Jalan Besar Stadium, it is not feasible to World Cup qualifier matches. In fact, with a slightly cynical tone, he said the field is only appropriate for school-level football.

"I do not like the ground, and grass. In my opinion, a good match only occurs in natural grass," complained 58-year-old man.

"Maybe for the level of schools, colleges, it does not matter. But not for the professional level. The game World Cup qualifier should be played on natural grass."

In addition, Zico also complained about the condition of recovery from his team ahead of this match. After losing 2-0 in the first game against the Jordan, the squad did not fully return Iraq to the best stamina.

"After the game, it is very difficult to be relaxed. The players felt exhausted and must go through a long flight. The journey was quite difficult, 30 hours from the Iraqi way. It's difficult for the players, they are not machines. Two games in four days. In present moment, for Iraq it is very burdensome, "added Zico.

Iraq will compete in Singapore in the second game in Group A. Both teams were defeated in their opening match in this group. Singapore defeated by China, while Iraq foundered in the hands of Jordan.