It’s not too often our website covers professional sports in much detail, preferring to leave the likes of the NFL, English Premier League and UEFA Champions League to the experts. We stick to what we know best, growing and maintaining your garden. But on this occasion, we feel it necessary to dip our toe into the waters of soccer. That’s because the world’s best-loved sport boasts some of the most impressive and innovative pitches. Which stadium lays claim to having the most pristine pitch, what’s the story behind that flex and which tips can everyday gardeners take from the groundskeeping staff?
When watching this year’s World Cup in Qatar or the latest match from the English Premier League, the sport’s most-watched and most bet-on soccer competition, viewers are drawn to the skills and character of the players. When watching sports, we love to see beautiful goals, unbelievable skills, the odd rant from players or coaches and maybe even the referee’s influence. But very few soccer lovers – even those who have been following the sport for years – often overlook one of the most important aspects of the play. The state of the pitch can affect the performance of players, results and even the pre-match and in-play online sports betting odds.
Underhand tactics
At the highest level, soccer is a game of passion, but the best teams are renowned for their passing ability. They have been coached to remain patient, spread the ball around the pitch and break down opponents. After creating a gap using quick play and crisp passing, teams will get behind their opponent’s defence and fashion chances to score goals. But all this is only possible if the pitch they are playing on helps promote free-flowing football that is easy on the eye.
Such is the importance of the state of the pitch; some teams like to water the grass before kick-off to aid their tactics. When facing more technically gifted opponents, others may help dry the pitch out or allow it to cut up in an attempt to disturb passing football, helping to slow the play down to something they can deal with more easily. Ask any experienced soccer fan who uses online sports betting apps to make their predictions on a match, and they’ll confess to checking the weather forecast and how the field of play has been holding up in recent weeks.
Which soccer clubs boast the best pitches, and where will you find the most appealing brand of soccer? Many of the sport’s leading names lay claim to having the best pitch and surrounding stadium, including Manchester City, Real Madrid, PSG and AC Milan. But did any of those big names make it onto our list of the five best playing surfaces in soccer? There’s only one way to find out. Let’s get going with our final list.
Ibrox
One of the oldest, most historic and instantly recognisable soccer stadiums on the planet, Ibrox is located in the Govan district of Glasgow, Scotland and is home to Rangers. Scotland’s most decorated club play at the nation’s only five-star rated stadium, and the play takes place on a perfect pitch that lends itself to free-flowing play.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
The newest major stadium in the United Kingdom, English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur play their home matches here between August and May. In addition to EPL fixtures, we often see the best teams play here in Europe, with some top names reserving special praise for the facilities, atmosphere and playing surface.
Mineira Favela
This one isn’t as well known as the two above, but it’s every bit as special. This unique venue was opened in Brazil in 2014, with none other than Pele cutting the ribbon. The pitch is one of a kind as it uses the player’s kinetic energy and solar panels to help provide energy through electricity.
Adidas Futsal Park
It’s no surprise that Adidas has put its name on this iconic venue that can be found high in the Tokyo sky. Placed on the roof of a major department building, it’s not for the faint-hearted, and it’s always advisable to keep shots low.
Ko Panyi Floating Field
Panyee in Thailand is famous for several reasons, but did you know it’s home to a floating pitch? This one does have to be seen to be believed.