Argentina Could Enter World Cup Without Preparation
The reigning world champion, Argentina, has only one match scheduled before their World Cup debut against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. However, that game could be canceled, leaving the Albiceleste without any warm-up matches before defending their title.
Risk of Friendly Cancellation
The match planned for March 31 in Buenos Aires against Guatemala is at serious risk of not being played. The problem lies in the Central American team's schedule: on March 27 they must play in Genoa, Italy, against Algeria, and would then have to travel to South America to face Argentina.
The situation is further complicated by a FIFA regulation that prevents a national team from playing matches on different continents during the same international window, aiming to avoid physical fatigue from long trips. According to this rule, the game in Buenos Aires would have to be canceled.
However, there is a possibility for an exception. Both the AFA and the Guatemalan federation have requested special authorization for the match to take place. The only condition would be that Guatemala has at least 72 hours of rest between the two matches, which seems feasible in principle.
Schedule Adjustments and Possible Alternatives
Argentina has already seen two important friendlies canceled: the Finalissima against Spain and a match against Qatar. This leaves Lionel Scaloni’s team with only one chance to fine-tune details and gain competitive rhythm before the World Cup.
Given this scenario, there is also the possibility of finding a new opponent for the March 27 date. Options being considered include teams like Honduras, who face a similar scheduling conflict as they play Peru in Spain on March 31, or Belize, which has no scheduled matches and could travel without issues.
If the cancellation occurs, Argentina could enter the World Cup without any preparation matches, a rare — and concerning — situation for the reigning world champion. For now, the AFA and FIFA are working to resolve the situation, but if no solution is reached, the Albiceleste would face the tournament under unusual conditions.
