Argentina Cancels Asia Tour and Searches for New Opponents in November
The Argentina national team has been forced to change its plans for the final FIFA international window of the year. Lionel Scaloni's side could face Uruguay and Costa Rica, with La Plata emerging as one of the leading options to host the friendlies.
The Argentina national team will have to find a new way to close out the year. Its planned tour of Asia in November has been canceled, leaving the Argentine Football Association (AFA) searching for opponents to keep Lionel Scaloni's team active during the international break.
The change comes after a FIFA international window in which La Albiceleste faced Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin, as the team continues working toward the development of a new generation of players.
With Lionel Messi no longer at the center of this new chapter, the coaching staff are looking to make the most of every international gathering to evaluate alternatives and identify players capable of taking on greater responsibilities within the squad.
The goal is to play two matches during the next international window, scheduled for November 9–17, although an official fixture list has yet to be confirmed.
Uruguay Emerges as a Leading Candidate
One of the most attractive possibilities is another meeting between Argentina and Uruguay, a historic South American rivalry that could become the highlight of November's international schedule.
According to information published by Doble Amarilla, the AFA has begun discussions over a potential friendly against La Celeste at Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona in La Plata.
There is even the possibility of organizing two matches between the neighboring nations, with the first taking place in Argentina and the return fixture being played in Montevideo.
The Uruguayan side, managed by Diego Forlán, recently completed an Asian tour that included victories over South Korea and India, although they also suffered a defeat against Japan.
A meeting between the two national teams would provide an important test for Scaloni, particularly given the intensity and competitive nature that have historically defined the Río de la Plata rivalry.
Costa Rica Also Enters the AFA's Plans
However, Uruguay is not the only alternative currently under consideration.
Another possibility would see Argentina host Costa Rica, also in La Plata, allowing the world champions to play both November fixtures without the need for lengthy international travel.
Such an arrangement would simplify training logistics and give the coaching staff more time to work with the players during the international window.
For now, discussions remain ongoing, and none of the proposed matches have been officially announced.
What was originally planned as an international tour of Asia could instead become an opportunity for La Albiceleste to play in front of their home supporters before the end of 2026.
The final decision will depend on the agreements reached by the AFA in the coming weeks, while Scaloni continues preparing the next chapter for the Argentina national team.
Key Takeaways From Argentina's Change of Plans
- The Argentina national team has canceled its planned Asian tour and is looking to schedule two friendlies during the November FIFA international window.
- Uruguay has emerged as one of the leading options, with potential matches in La Plata and Montevideo.
- Costa Rica is also being considered as a possible opponent, although no official confirmation has been announced.
