UEFA is still set on having Qatar host the Argentina vs. Spain match, known as Finalissima, this month, despite the ongoing threat of Iranian missile attacks due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East involving Israel and the United States.
“Currently, there are no alternative locations being considered,” UEFA stated on Thursday regarding the March 27 match in Doha, featuring the reigning champions from South America and Europe, possibly starring Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.
“A final decision is expected by the end of next week,” added the European football organization, which collaborates with its South American counterpart, CONMEBOL, to organize the event.
Argentina and Spain are set to play at Lusail Stadium, the venue that hosted the thrilling 2022 World Cup final.
In that final, Argentina triumphed over France in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw, with Messi scoring twice and Kylian Mbappé netting a hat trick.
Qatar maintains close ties with UEFA, as Nasser Al Khelaïfi, its top football official and president of the Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain, holds a position on UEFA’s executive committee.
UEFA commented, “Discussions are ongoing with local organizers, who are working diligently to ensure the match’s success.”
If security concerns render Doha unsafe for the match, it could potentially be relocated to Spain or another European country, where most of the players from both teams are based.
The inaugural Finalissima took place at Wembley Stadium in London in June 2022, where Argentina and Messi defeated Italy 3-0.
In light of increasing global tensions following U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran, the Qatar football federation announced the postponement of all tournaments and matches until further notice. Argentina was also scheduled to play Qatar in a friendly on March 31.