Rabiot Criticises MetLife Pitch

Adrien Rabiot slammed the temporary grass at MetLife Stadium after France’s 3-1 win over Senegal, saying it felt “more like an artificial surface.”

The midfielder, who assisted Bradley Barcola’s goal, complained the pitch was hard and rigid. Brazil’s Vinicius Junior had earlier noted the surface dried quickly in heat, slowing play.

MetLife, home to the Giants and Jets, has a poor reputation for injuries on its artificial turf.

Despite installing grass for the World Cup, concerns remain ahead of England’s group game with Panama on 27 June and the final on 19 July.