Extended Halftime Controversy Before Copa America Final
Colombia Coach Criticizes CONMEBOL's Decision for Shakira's Performance
Controversy has erupted before the Copa America Final on Sunday in Miami. Colombia’s head coach, Nestor Lorenzo, is not upset with Argentina, his team’s foe in the title match, but rather with a decision made by CONMEBOL, leading to what is now known as the Shakira halftime show controversy.
You won’t believe the issue. It’s not about who wears what or which goal teams will shoot at. The halftime break has become a nuisance in soccer news. CONMEBOL decided to extend halftime from 15 minutes to 25 minutes so Shakira could have a complete performance.
This is the same Shakira who pulled off a Super Bowl halftime show in about half that time with Jennifer Lopez.
“I hope you enjoy, Shakira is great,” Lorenzo said. “But changing the rules for a show is unfair. For a final, when the rules change for both teams, bad pitches for both or same weather for both, then I can’t say if it’s bad or if it favors one side. I can’t understand it; I wish it were like the rest. When we came out in the 16th minute, we were sanctioned, but now that there is a show, we can come out at the 20th-minute mark. Players can get cold, but it’s on both sides. I found out today that this is how it is, and that’s it.”
Lorenzo continued his criticism: “This could affect the players’ fitness,” said Lorenzo, whose team is the sports betting favorite entering the championship match. “They could cool down too much. Those minutes of recovery in the dressing room… people don’t understand what it takes to reach those levels. But again, this will affect both teams. I had heard about it yesterday but I wasn’t sure if it was true. I was told not to worry about it, but I found out today it was happening.”
Shakira halftime show controversy: Argentinva vs Colombia
Colombia is seeking its second Copa crown, while Argentina is aiming for its 16th title, which would break a tie with Uruguay. The decision to extend halftime has added an unexpected layer of controversy to what promises to be an exciting final. The Shakira halftime show controversy has undoubtedly stirred strong opinions ahead of the big game.
Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo criticizes Copa America plans for 25-minute halftime show.
Lorenzo: “I hope you all enjoy it. Shakira is a wonderful artist.” https://t.co/cnxS05ZUg2
— Felipe Cárdenas (@FelipeCar) July 13, 2024
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