Europees duel onder vreselijke grasmat na Kanye West’ concert

RSC Anderlecht waits Thursday evening for a bijzondere Europees uitwedstrijd tegen Kairat Almaty, a long trek to Kazachstan compounded by the state of the veld in the Central Stadium after a Kanye West’ concert.

Pitch condition after Kanye West concert

The grass at the Central Stadium was covered for the American rapper’s performance last week, leaving large sections yellowed and visibly damaged. The report notes that the grasmat has clearly suffered, making the playing surface far from ideal for the upcoming Europa League play‑off.

Beyond the pitch, Anderlecht already endures a lengthy journey to Almaty, a factor that adds fatigue before any ball is kicked. The club’s travel schedule means the team arrives with limited recovery time.

Trainer Bruno Vitor insists the condition of the veld will not be used as an excuse. He stated, "De grasmat wil ik niet inroepen als excuus. We gaan niet zeuren over zaken die we zelf niet onder controle hebben".

For Anderlecht, Thursday carries high stakes; a win against Kairat could secure a place in the hoofdtoernooi of the Europa League. The Belgian side is eager to progress despite the compromised playing surface.

Whether the remnants of the Kanye West’ show will influence the match outcome remains to be seen, adding another layer of intrigue to the Europees encounter.