It didn't happen on the field, but power failures continue to remain associated with the City of Joy, one way or the other. This time, it happened during Venezuela's press conference after Argentina had won the international friendly 1-0.
As Venezuela coach, Cesar Farias, was about to take the last question from the media, the power in the entire stadium went out. After waiting for a while, Farias, midfielder Cesar Gonsalez and the Venezuelan public relations officer left the podium. Power was restored after a few minutes, but by then the damage had been done.
Not that this had happened for the first time. On several occasions, I-League matches have been halted and cricket matches delayed. The Kolkata Knight Riders' first IPL match against the Deccan Chargers witnessed a power failure in two towers at the Eden, resulting in delays.
After several embarrassing situations, uninterrupted power supply has been ensured. Football, though, continues to play catch-up with cricket.
Argentina coach, Alejandro Sabella, however had a different take. "I think power is a problem the world over," said Sabella. The Argentine coach also felt his team's performance was far from extraordinary, though he was happy that his boys won.
Drinks break
The energy-sapping heat and humidity forced Argentina to take an extra break in the second half. Play was stopped in the 65th minute as both teams returned to their dugouts to take some refreshments. Argentina coach Sabella said he had approached the Venezuela coach requesting him to take the break.
Drinks break
The energy-sapping heat and humidity forced Argentina to take an extra break in the second half. Play was stopped in the 65th minute as both teams returned to their dugouts to take some refreshments. Argentina coach Sabella said he had approached the Venezuela coach requesting him to take the break.