Spain vs Argentina ‘Finalissima’ cancelled

The highly anticipated Finalissima clash between Spain and Argentina, scheduled for 27 March at Doha’s Lusail Stadium, has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, UEFA announced on Sunday.

The match, pitting European champions Spain against Copa America winners Argentina, was set to celebrate the champions of the two continents. 

UEFA said discussions with Qatari authorities concluded that the game could not proceed given the "current political situation" in the region.

"It is a source of great disappointment to UEFA and the organisers that circumstances and timing have denied the teams the chance to compete for this prestigious prize in Qatar," the governing body said.

UEFA explored alternative arrangements, including staging the match at Santiago Bernabeu with a 50:50 split of supporters or holding it over two legs; one in Madrid on 27 March and a second in Buenos Aires before the next Euros and Copa America. 

However, both proposals were rejected by Argentinian Football Association (AFA). Argentina later suggested a post-World Cup date, but Spain had no available calendar slots.

As a result, the much-awaited fixture will not take place this year, leaving fans disappointed.

SH