France Coach Says MetLife Stadium Surface Felt Like Cement During World Cup Match

France defeated Senegal 3-1 at MetLife Stadium on June 16 while using cleats without studs. The head coach said the surface felt different from typical grass fields. The coach was asked about the playing surface after the match. He responded that the grass appeared short and that it might sit above a cement-like base.

The coach noted that moisture levels also affected how the field played. Players who had competed at the venue before told him the conditions felt similar to earlier visits. The coach added that limited soil depth beneath the grass can make the surface harder to play on.

He said the team adjusted to the conditions during the match. The venue replaced its usual artificial turf with imported grass for the World Cup under FIFA rules.