National teams preparing for the 2026 World Cup: Argentina in search of practice matches

The cancellation of the Finalissima leaves the Argentine National Team without confirmed preparation matches three months before the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, other national teams already have their plans set for the March FIFA window. The AFA is seeking to reschedule its schedule and could face the Argentine U-20 team.

Argentina seeks rivals for practice

The cancellation of the Finalissima has left the Argentine National Team in a difficult situation. With just three months until the 2026 World Cup, the team led by Lionel Scaloni has no confirmed preparation matches. Following the cancellation of games against Spain and Qatar, the AFA is in discussions to rearrange its agenda. The team is expected to gather on Monday, March 23, in Ezeiza to train and possibly play one or two matches, possibly against the Argentine U-20 team.

Spain's alternative plans

On the other hand, Spain, following the cancellation of the Finalissima, has reacted swiftly. The Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed a match with Serbia on March 27, the original date of the match against Argentina. Additionally, they are working to maintain the clash with Egypt on Monday, March 30. In contrast, other favorites like France and Brazil are preparing to face off in the United States on March 26, followed by other matches at various venues in the U.S.

Plans of other top national teams

France and Brazil will meet in Foxborough, Massachusetts, while England will have two games at Wembley against Uruguay and Japan. Portugal, on the other hand, will face Mexico and the United States at the Estadio Azteca and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, respectively. Meanwhile, Argentina plans to face opponents in the U.S. in June before their World Cup 2026 debut against Algeria on June 16.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Preparación de selecciones para el Mundial 2026: Argentina en busca de partidos de ensayo