The same report claims that Atletico rejected suggestions that their pitch surface was problematic ahead of the second leg clash. They claimed the grass was in good condition, or even much better, than it was a month ago. Los Rojiblancos also pointed out that warmer temperatures in Madrid in recent weeks have helped maintain the quality of the surface at the Metropolitano.
The response came after attention turned to the pitch following Barcelona’s last visit to the stadium in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie. During the opening goal, the ball took an unexpected bounce for Joan García, setting the stage for Atletico's 4-0 rout.