UEFA has intervened to calm Barcelona after concerns were raised about the condition of the pitch at the 'Riyadh Air Metropolitano' stadium, ahead of their clash with Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona enter the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals in need of an upset, after losing 2-0 in the first leg.
However, the pre-match attention temporarily shifted to the condition of the pitch in Madrid.
Coach Hansi Flick was seen expressing concerns about the quality of the grass during Monday's training session, which led the club to request an official inspection.
During the pre-match meeting between representatives of both clubs and UEFA, the governing body, clear assurances were given, with officials confirming that the grass would be kept at a length of 26 millimetres, within the maximum limit of 30 mm allowed under regulations.
UEFA has also taken additional measures to ensure optimal playing conditions.
It has been agreed that the pitch will be fully watered before the start of the match and again during the break between the two halves, a key factor in maintaining the speed and fluidity of the game. /Telegraph/
