14.04.2026 16:56
Tensions have peaked ahead of the return match after Barcelona filed a complaint with UEFA over allegations that Atletico Madrid intentionally left the grass long and turned their sprinkler systems toward opposing players before the Barcelona game.
Tension has risen between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg. It has been alleged that the Spanish team intentionally left the grass on the stadium pitch long and turned the irrigation systems towards the Barcelona players.
PLAN TO DISRUPT THE PASSING GAME
According to the claim, Atletico Madrid aimed to slow down Barcelona's fast passing game by not cutting the grass short. This move was suggested to be a strategic choice to lower the Catalan team's tempo of play.
IRRIGATION SYSTEM CRISIS
On the other hand, the claim that the irrigation systems were operated towards the area where Barcelona players were during training also came to the agenda. This situation caused tensions to rise even further between the two teams.
BARCELONA WENT TO UEFA
The Barcelona side, determining that the grass was longer than normal during their final training session at the stadium, applied to UEFA. It was learned that the Catalan club requested the grass to be remeasured.
WHAT DO THE RULES SAY?
According to UEFA rules, the grass height on the pitch must not exceed 3 centimeters. In case of a possible violation, shortening the grass before the match could be considered.
TENSION ESCALATED BEFORE THE BIG MATCH
While Atletico Madrid, who won the first leg 2-0 away, wants to protect its advantage at home, Barcelona will take to the field to turn the tie around. However, these claims before the match have further increased the tension of the encounter.