Why is an Argentine side using Viagra to win the Copa Libertadores semi-final?

Players will use Viagra to help combat high altitude

Players of Argentina side San Lorenzo will be given a dose of Viagra to help in the all-important Copa Libertadores semi-final.

Why? To combat the nauseating effects of high altitude.

Their opponents are Bolivian club Bolivar whose stadium Estadio Hernando Siles is located almost 12,000 feet above sea level. It is the highest football stadium in the world where FIFA allow international matches to take place! And the Argentina club is situated in Buenos Aires – at sea level.

Although San Lorenzo lead 5-0 from the first leg, they are not taking any chances.

Why Viagra?

Viagra is a drug that is used to treat not only erectile dysfunction but also pulmonary arterial hypertension.

And club manager Edgardo Bauza has recommended a dose of sildenafil citrate (aka Viagra) because it helps facilitate the oxygenation of blood – something which is necessary for athletes in such extreme conditions.

This isn’t the first time he has tried it. They used the same tactic when they played Ecuadorian club Independiente de la Valle – more than 8,000 feet above sea level.

Players suffer at Estadio Hernando Siles

When Argentina played Bolivia during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the players had a very tough time playing in the conditions.

Lionel Messi was seen voimiting during the match and Angel Di Maria was short of breath and had to leave the pitch to get some oxygen with the help of a mask.

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