Argentina to face Costa Rica instead of Nigeria in March

There have been quite a few twists and turns in Argentina’s friendly matches in the upcoming March international break. Two matches were to be played in China, against Nigeria in Hangzhou, and Ivory Coast in Beijing, but they were called off because of the ‘Messi case’ in Hong Kong. Then it was to be played in Nigeria, but the decision was also cancelled due to logistical problems. Costa Rica and El Salvador are now the two countries that will face the Albiceleste.

The AFA announced that “due to an administrative problem with visas, the Nigerian national team will not be able to play their match against the Argentine national team, scheduled for the March double-header in the United States. That is why Costa Rica will replace the African team”.

Argentina will play El Salvador on 22 March at Lincoln Financial Field and Costa Rica on 26 March at the Los Angeles Coliseum Stadium. The schedule for both friendlies has yet to be finalised.

Ahead of the Copa América later this year, Lionel Messi and Co. will play two more friendlies against Ecuador and Guatemala just days before the competition kicks off in the United States. The two opponents and venues have been officially confirmed, all that remains to be announced is the schedule for each match.