Artifical turf sparks heat concern at World Cup

The extreme heat generated by artificial turf at the 2015 Women's World Cup in Canada has sparked concerns about player safety with the mercury hitting 49C degrees during the opening clash between Canada and China.

Players were left sweltering despite the air temperature reaching only 23C degrees during the tournament opener at Edmonton on Saturday.

But with broadcasters measuring the pre-match turf temperature at 49c degrees, the controversial decision to use synthetic surfaces has drawn criticism player safety may be at risk.

Football fans took to social media during Canada's 1-0 win over China to condemn the synthetic turf.

"It's a brisk 120 degrees on the artificial turf at the Women's World Cup," tweeted one fan. "The fact it's on turf is stupid."

The concerns come after the USA team filed a lawsuit against FIFA and Canada's decision in the Ontario Human Right Tribunal before the showpiece event, which was later withdrawn.

It also could be a cause for worry for the Matildas, who will face the USA on a synthetic surface at Winnipeg on June 8 when the air temperature is forecast to reach 29C degrees.

The Investors Group Field is covered by far more shade with higher stands than Edmonton's stadium with more cloud forecasted so it is hoped the turf heat will not be as extreme.

The Australian camp has played down concerns, with Matildas coach Alen Stajcic declaring he did not have any issue with the artificial surface.

"I don't think the pitch is a factor to be honest, like I've said before we don't even talk about it, the pitch is irrelevant," Stajcic told Fairfax Media.