The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for their next game in Brazil after defeating the Washington Commanders 37-20 and moving to 1-1. The team is scheduled to meet the Baltimore Ravens at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Sept. 27.
The condition of the stadium’s field has become a topic of concern after Agustin Rossi, the goalkeeper for Flamengo Football Club, criticized the surface. Rossi said the penalty areas had numerous uneven spots and expressed hope that the field would be improved before the NFL game.
The NFL told The Athletic that it has preparations in place for the international contest. “As with all international games, we have a plan in place to ensure a high-quality playing surface,” the league said.
Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team’s football operations staff has been communicating with the league about the field. He said league officials expected the surface to meet the necessary standard and that he did not have concerns about the game proceeding.
Owner and general manager Jerry Jones said Sunday evening that he was still seeking updated information, but described the field as a leading priority after the Washington game. Receiver CeeDee Lamb, who recorded 153 yards and two touchdowns against the Commanders, offered a brief response when asked about the issue: “Let's play.”
