Empty Stadiums and Inequality Mar Women’s Copa América

The 2025 Women's Copa América in Ecuador has been marked by organizational issues and player protests as it enters the semifinals. Key complaints include the absence of VAR technology during group stages, with Chilean player Yanara Aedo calling it "disrespectful" and demanding parity with the men's tournament. VAR will only be implemented starting in the semifinals, a decision criticized by Ecuadorian captain Ligia Moreira and analyst Martha Córdova, who cited "limited organization."

Stadium attendance has been alarmingly low, with matches often drawing only dozens of spectators despite capacities of 12,000-18,000. The sole exception was Ecuador's opening match, which attracted 6,000 fans. Analyst Córdova attributed this to poorly chosen venues and inconvenient scheduling, contrasting sharply with the sold-out UEFA Women's Euro. Fans like Rossi Torrealba criticized organizers for opening only single sections of stadiums.

Players have also protested unequal working conditions and pay disparities. Uruguay's team skipped pre-tournament training to demand better conditions, with captain Pamela González noting inadequate preparation. Brazilian players, including Marta, condemned substandard facilities—such as warming up in side areas—with Marta questioning if it constituted "professional football." Following complaints, teams were finally permitted to warm up on main fields.