Messi disappointed as Finalissima between Argentina, Spain in Qatar is canceled
Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi was disappointed to learn of the cancellation of the Finalissima match between Argentina and Spain, which had been scheduled to be played in Qatar on March 27 but was called off due to the war in the region.
According to a source close to Messi, he was looking forward to playing in the match featuring Argentina, the 2024 Copa America champions, and Spain, the Euro 2024 winners. The source added that contrary to some reports, Messi was not involved in the conversations that led to the cancellation.
The match had been billed as a showdown between Messi and Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal.
“After much discussion between UEFA and the organizing authorities in Qatar, it is announced today that due to the current political situation in the region, the Finalissima cannot be played as hoped in Qatar,” UEFA announced on Sunday. “UEFA explored other feasible alternatives but each ultimately proved unacceptable to the Argentinian Football Association.”
According to UEFA, the first option was to stage the match at the Bernabeu in Madrid on the original date with a 50/50 split of supporters in the stadium, but Argentina refused.
The second was to stage the Finalissima over two legs -- one at the Bernabeu on March 27 and the other in Buenos Aires during an international window before UEFA EURO and Copa America 2028. This option was also rejected.
“Ultimately, UEFA sought a commitment from Argentina that, if a neutral venue in Europe could be found, the game could go ahead on March 27, as planned, or on the alternative date of March 30. This proposal was also rejected.
“Argentina made a counter suggestion to play the game after the World Cup but, as Spain has no available dates, that option had to be ruled out.”
CONMEBOL released a statement saying other venues and dates were considered, but an agreement could not be reached.