NFL Players Association concerned about Maracana field conditions

Brazil on the NFL agenda: third year in a row and debuts in Rio

Brazil will once again host an NFL regular season game for the third consecutive year, as part of the American football league's international expansion strategy.The match will be between Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys on Sunday at Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro.

Friday: NFLPA alert points to injury risk, not just playability issue

On Friday, the NFL players' union expressed concern about poor grass conditions at Maracanã Stadium. NFLPA executive director JC Tretter stated that the state of the field, "more than a playability and performance issue", poses "a significant risk of injury".

Concern was heightened in the days leading up to the match, when the pitch came under criticism and suffered from heavy rains.

Experts recommend 'reinforcing structure' in the natural grass

In a statement, Tretter reported that experts from the NFLPA and the league itself determined that the turf required a "strengthening structure".In this procedure, synthetic fibers are used in natural grass maintenance with the goal of improving traction and stability for players.

"Our experts will remain vigilant", he said.

Tretter felt that problems with the pitch could hamper Sunday's spectacle and questioned whether international matches should be held without proper conditions.

Our players are exceptional at what they do and I am confident that they will play a great game in Rio this week... Players can overcome many obstacles, but shouldn't have to deal with the conditions on the pitch either he said.

"The NFL has made it clear that they want to continue expanding the sport internationally, however growth alone cannot be the goal.

Trains in Botafogo and Flamengo; teams minimize to POL emic

The Ravens and Cowboys held their first practice sessions in Rio on Friday afternoon.

Members of both teams minimized the POL emic around Maracanã.

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP, said earlier in the week: "The NFL does a great job of sending their experts to inspect the fields.

'We've played in bad fields many times, so I won't go over it again,' added Jackson.

Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said he's not worried about the state of the turf. "We will have a field in proper condition".

Sunday under surveillance: NFLPA alert and teams in rhythm game

Until Friday afternoon, the scenario combined an NFLPA warning, a recommendation for field reinforcement and a monitoring statement from experts. At the same time, teams got into the rhythm of the game and sought to reduce the impact of POL .

The game between the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys is scheduled for Sunday at Maracanã, but the debate over safety and turf conditions remains a major point of attention for Brazilian fans who will be watching the 3rd consecutive year of the NFL regular season in Brazil.