Following the cancellation of their tour of China due to criticism over Lionel Messi missing a recent Inter Miami friendly in Hong Kong, Argentina is reportedly planning to play their next international match in the United States.
The world champions were originally supposed to play matches in China during the international break that begins next month against Nigeria and Ivory Coast, but that is no longer the case as sport authorities have canceled the planned tour.
Mail Online notes Chinese officials were incensed when Lionel was benched for Miami’s match against Hong Kong XI on February 4, as some fans had paid over $600 to witness the soccer legend live.
Argentina was forced to find a last-minute replacement when the Beijing Football Association declared that it had “no plans” for Lionel or his nation to play in China.
Effect Of China’s Withdrawal On Messi
In light of China’s withdrawal, the USA has now been chosen as the preferred “Plan B” option, according to Argentinian publication La Nacion, via AS.
The 36 year old and company will now travel to the East Coast for their upcoming international series, which will still feature a match against Nigeria.
However, it’s thought they’ll play El Salvador instead of a friendly against Ivory Coast.
In order to get ready for the Copa America that will take place in the United States this summer, AFA President Claudio Tapia is suggesting that Lionel Scaloni’s team play on the East Coast. Their first game against Chile will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on June 25.
The Argentine will play El Salvador in another friendly match in less than two months, having previously faced the Central American nation in January when Miami played them.
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On Wednesday night, The Argentine and Miami opened their 2024 Major League Soccer campaign with a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake City.
They travel to LA Galaxy on Sunday and then play Orlando City on Saturday.
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