In an unexpected revelation following Juventus’ 1–0 defeat to Real Madrid at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, head coach Thiago Motta stated that ten of his players asked to be substituted due to extreme heat and humidity.
The match, played at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on July 1, 2025, was part of the Club World Cup’s Round of 16. While Real Madrid progressed to the quarter-finals, the sweltering conditions proved to be a major talking point after the game.
🌡️ “It Was Too Much”: Motta Speaks Out
After the match, Motta told reporters:
“The humidity was extreme. At one point, almost ten players came to me asking to be subbed off. It was unlike anything we’ve experienced in recent memory.”
With temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) and humidity levels crossing 70%, the game became as much a test of endurance as of footballing skill.
⚽ Impact on Game Dynamics
- Juventus struggled to maintain intensity in the second half, leading to a 53rd-minute goal by Real Madrid’s Gonzalo García.
- The Italian side used all five of their available substitutions by the 65th minute.
- Real Madrid, in contrast, appeared better acclimatized and made fewer personnel changes until later in the match.
🔄 Substitution Rules Tested
Under FIFA’s current rules, teams are allowed up to five substitutions in three windows (excluding halftime). Motta’s comment highlighted the challenge of managing a squad in tropical conditions, particularly when many players simultaneously report physical distress.
🧪 Why Was It So Intense?
The Club World Cup is being held in the United States this year, and the Miami venue, while iconic, is known for its hot and humid climate during the summer months.
- 🕓 Match time: 4:30 PM local time
- 🧪 Humidity: 70%
- 🔥 Real-feel temperature: Estimated 38°C (100°F) on the pitch
The choice of time and venue is now under scrutiny, with some fans and pundits calling for future matches to be played later in the evening or under covered stadiums.
👥 Players’ Health First?
Motta’s statement sparked renewed debate over player welfare in international tournaments.
Football analysts noted:
- A higher-than-normal number of fatigue-related errors from both teams
- Reduced sprint frequency and pressing intensity post-halftime
- Increased use of cooling breaks and on-pitch physiotherapy
📉 Juventus’ Exit, Madrid Marches On
Despite the weather conditions, Real Madrid adapted better and took control in the second half, thanks in part to standout performances from Trent Alexander-Arnold and academy striker Gonzalo García.
Juventus, exhausted and undermanned, now exit the tournament while Madrid prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals.
📢 Final Word
The Club World Cup aims to be a global celebration of football, but this incident underscores the need for careful scheduling, player rotation strategies, and consideration of climate conditions. As global tournaments increasingly expand to new geographies, the balance between spectacle and player safety must remain a top priority.
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📌 Stay tuned to our blog for more real-time updates from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, player interviews, and match previews.
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