CANADA players expressed concerns about “unsafe” conditions after a referee collapsed due to intense heat at the Copa America.
Assistant referee Humberto Panjoj fell ill and collapsed during Canada‘s match against Peru on Tuesday.
The incident occurred late in the first half as several players rushed to help.
Goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau was the first to assist Panjoj while a corner took place at the other end of the pitch.
Thankfully, the official was conscious and breathing.
Discussing the frightening incident, Crepeau said: “I was happy that he was conscious.
“I got the news that he’s fine now, so thank God. But we need to address that.
“I don’t care what people say, health of the people on the field – players and officials – that needs to be looked at.”
Panjoj is now understood to be okay following his collapse.
The temperature at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas was reportedly around 100°F at the time which equates to 38°C.
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Players and officials were not granted a water break during the first half.
Canada defender Alistair Johnston said: “It’s one of those kind of matches that the conditions you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy.”
Suggesting a potential solution, he added: “It can’t be a 5 o’clock kickoff.
“That’s the simplest one. … It’s got to be an 8 or 9 o’clock kickoff. Because honestly, it’s not even safe for the fans.”
Canada went on to win the match 1-0 thanks to a 74th-minute strike from Jonathan David.
