Doha: The ‘Finalissima’ match between European champions Spain and Copa America winners Argentina, which was scheduled to be held in Qatar, has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) announced. Reports said the South American side rejected all alternative proposals.
The conflict triggered by the attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran has affected countries across the region. Travel through some of the world’s busiest transit hubs has been disrupted, and several sporting events have been cancelled due to security concerns.
The Spain- Argentina match had been scheduled to take place on March 27 at the Lusail Stadium in Doha.
Authorities concluded that the match could not be held due to the current political situation in the region. Qatar’s Local Organising Committee also announced the cancellation of the Qatar Football Festival due to airspace disruptions and travel restrictions. The festival had planned friendly matches featuring host nation Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Serbia.
An initial alternative proposal was to stage the match at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid with a 50:50 split of supporters. A second option suggested holding the game over two legs- the first on March 27 at the Bernabéu and the second in Buenos Aires. However, the Argentine Football Association rejected both proposals.
Argentina was also requested to consider holding the match at a neutral venue in Europe on March 27 or March 30, but this proposal was also turned down.
Spain, in cooperation with UEFA, had expressed its willingness to organise the match and remained ready to play at any time.
