Kochi: The city will get to witness a FIFA game Saturday as eternal favorites Brazil take on Spain in the most-anticipated game of Group D.
However, only 29,000 people will be able to watch the game in the arena after the seating capacity was reduced taking into account security issues.
Earlier, it was decided that the capacity would be 41,000 but it had to be reduced later. Now, allegations have been raised that timely action by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), that owns the stadium, could have solved the seating crunch. The FIFA had asked for folding chairs at the stadium, where in all the people can be evicted within eight minutes in an emergency situation. However, the GCDA made no move to install folding chairs, citing expenses.
The venue will see eight matches, including six Group D matches.
On the opening day, Brazil will take on Spain at 5 pm and in the second match North Korea will confront Niger at 8 pm. All tickets for the opening day have been sold out.
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