Entire stand in 44,000-capacity stadium unable to watch live match as giant screen blocks view of pitch
PALMEIRAS fans were forced to watch the club’s latest match on a giant screen despite being sat behind one of the goals.
A schedule clash pushed the Brazilian giants into a bizarre decision on Tuesday.
With a concert organised for Wednesday evening at Allianz Parque, a stage was put up at one end of the pitch before Palmeiras‘ huge top of the table clash with Botafogo.
It blocked an entire stand from the field – but fans still sat there.
Supporters watched the match on a giant screen behind the stage area.
Due to the importance of the fixture, Palmeiras president Leila Pereira refused to close off the area.
Instead, tickets for the obstructed seats were made free as compensation for the inconvenience.
Palmeiras went on to lose 3-1 to title rivals Botafogo.
Brazilian midfielder Gregore broke the deadlock in the 19th minute.
Jefferson Savarino and Adryelson then sealed the win before Richard Rios scored a consolation goal in added time.
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The result saw Botafogo leapfrog Palmeiras to go top of the Serie A table.
Fans were furious at manager Abel Ferreira for substituting young superstar Estevao Willian during the match.
Some in attendance allegedly branded him an “idiot” after the call.