Buenos Aires,21 March (H.S.):
The Argentine Football Association announced Friday that world champions Argentina will face Zambia in a friendly match on March 31 as part of FIFA World Cup 2026 preparations replacing an earlier plan against Guatemala.
Argentina was originally set to play Spain in the Finalissima and host Qatar in Doha as part of the Qatar Football Festival with the marquee clash slated for Lusail Stadium where Lionel Messi lifted the last World Cup trophy.
Ongoing Middle East conflict forced cancellation of that tournament prompting Argentina to shift both friendlies home to Buenos Aires on March 27 and 31.
FIFA rules barring teams from playing across two continents in one international window ruled out Guatemala hence Zambias inclusion.
Under coach Lionel Scaloni the team takes on Zambia at 8:15 PM at La Bombonera Stadium on March 31 the AFA confirmed while thanking the Guatemala federation for their cooperative spirit despite logistical hurdles.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
