Dortmund coach criticizes MetLife Stadium conditions ahead of World Cup

Niko Kovač, Borussia Dortmund’s coach, delivered sharp criticism of MetLife Stadium’s field conditions — a venue he deemed more suitable for golf than high-level football.

Following the 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the Club World Cup quarterfinals, Kovač highlighted issues with excessively short grass and inadequate irrigation systems — conditions vastly different from Bundesliga standards.

“It’s more like a golf putting green. The irrigation isn’t good enough because they don’t have the proper equipment,” stated Kovač.

High temperatures also emerged as a major concern — thermometers showed 86°F at the 3 PM kickoff. Similar issues plagued the team in Cincinnati, where temperatures reached 113°F.

“I suggest later kickoff times. High temperatures make it difficult to deliver the intensive, aggressive football that spectators want to see,” added Kovač.

These concerns gain significance as MetLife Stadium prepares to host the semifinals and final of the upcoming World Cup.