Argentina's World Cup Prep in Jeopardy as Spain Match Falls Through
Image Source: Internet
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Argentina's World Cup defense has hit a snag as the Finalissima against Spain was canceled due to the war in the Middle East.
Coach Lionel Scaloni was counting on facing Spain to gauge the team's readiness for the World Cup, but the Argentine Football Association couldn't find a suitable new date with UEFA.
Argentina has not confirmed any final warmup opponents in late May before the World Cup in June, leaving the team uncertain about its readiness for the tournament.
The AFA has opted for a deliberate strategy to obtain greater commercial benefits, even at the cost of facing lower-level opponents in exotic locations.
Argentina still doesn't know if it will be able to count on captain Lionel Messi, who will turn 39 during the World Cup.
The team begins World Cup group play against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, followed by Austria and Jordan.
