Severe storms threaten Arsenal’s match against Atletico Madrid
Severe storms are expected to impact Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, as the Spanish capital faces warnings of “significant danger” from the national meteorological agency Aemet, prompting advice for travelling supporters to remain vigilant and keep track of local developments, reports BritPanorama.
The weather alert is in effect from midday until 10pm local time, extending beyond the anticipated conclusion of the match. Forecasters expect up to 30mm of rain within a single hour, alongside strong wind gusts and the possibility of hail.
These adverse conditions pose potential challenges for the Metropolitano Stadium, which has already drawn criticism for its playing surface in recent European fixtures. Tottenham faced difficulties with the slippery turf in their previous encounter, while Barcelona also raised complaints with UEFA regarding the grass length before their own match earlier this month.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his team’s readiness to face whatever challenges lie ahead in Madrid, stating, “We adapt to any context… So we adapt to the conditions tomorrow in the best possible way to be ourselves and win the game.” Captain Martin Odegaard echoed the sentiment, urging his teammates to deliver “something special” during this crucial away fixture.
Odegaard added, “Tomorrow is another great opportunity for us to do something special… We’re at the top, fighting for the title, winning and playing in the semi-final of the Champions League.” The focus will now be on how both teams handle the conditions and the pressure of the occasion.
