Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has criticized the kick-off times at the Club World Cup, warning that the conditions are unsuitable for high-level football during the U.S. summer heat.
His comments came after PSG’s 4-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in their opening group match on Sunday. The game, held at noon in Pasadena, Los Angeles, was played in extreme weather, with temperatures nearing 40°C and humidity around 60%.
Enrique said: “The match was clearly influenced by the temperature.
“The time slot is great for European audiences, but the teams are suffering.
“In terms of play, it’s impossible to perform at a very high level for 90 minutes.”
PSG are set to face Botafogo again in Pasadena, this time with a 6 p.m. local kick-off, while Atletico Madrid will head to Seattle, where conditions are expected to be much cooler, with a forecast of 19°C.
