FIFA defended attendance after the Group A clash between South Korea and the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, noting that 44,985 fans entered the 46,000‑seat Estadio Akron. Empty rows appeared because many ticket‑holders remained in the concourses rather than their seats. FIFA said official figures count tickets scanned, not the visual fill at any moment.

Critics had already attacked FIFA for steep ticket prices and questioned demand for games in the expanded 48‑team format. The body pointed to pre‑match scans confirming a near‑sell‑out and posted a photograph of a mostly full bowl. It argued that fans standing elsewhere does not lower the reported attendance.

The justification adds fuel to a broader debate over World Cup transparency. While stadium officials and ticketing partners assure FIFA that data are “verified operational,” visible gaps may shape public perception of the tournament’s appeal, especially as host cities chase economic gains from packed venues.

Local authorities in Guadalajara reported that the concourse crowd helped maintain a lively atmosphere despite the seating gaps, and they expect similar patterns in upcoming matches. FIFA’s clarification aims to preserve the integrity of its attendance metrics as the tournament progresses toward later stages.