The players of Canada and Sweden have criticised the IOC over the scheduling of the women’s football final at the Tokyo Olympics.
While the United States and Great Britain may not have made it to the final of the women’s tournament at the Summer Games, there’s still a lot to be said for the high level of competition we’ve seen across the last few weeks. From pillar to post there have been plenty of noteworthy games and moments to enjoy, and in the end, we’ve wound up with Canada vs Sweden as the final two sides ready to battle it out over the gold medal.
Sweden & Canada come together
In any other year, this would just be another game but in this instance, there’s actually a bit of controversy behind it with the International Olympic Committee being in the eye of the storm.
The match was due to get underway at 11am local time in Tokyo on Friday but has now been moved, mainly due to the fears regarding player safety. This is because the temperature is expected to reach as high as 32 degrees which could’ve substantially impacted the ability of the two teams to compete at a high level.
Now, it’s been confirmed that it’s been shifted to 9pm local time, which will also allow for more viewers to watch it at what some would say is a more “suitable” hour.
Prior to that decision being made, though, Sweden goalkeeper Zećira Mušović voiced her opinion on the situation through social media.
“To even consider playing a final at 11:00 local time in Japan is a direct danger to the players’ health due to extreme weather conditions. Once again money talks way too much in a discussion that should not be a discussion.”
Thankfully, it appears as if common sense has indeed prevailed.
Featured image credit: Getty