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Argentina Cancels Asia Tour, Plans Three Home Friendlies After Messi's Retirement

The Argentine national team has dropped its plans for an Asian tour after Lionel Messi announced his international retirement. Instead, they will play three friendly matches at home during the upcoming international break. Coach Lionel Scaloni is preparing the squad for a return to domestic venues between September 21 and October 6, following their 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final.

Three Home Matches Set for September and October

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is organizing a trio of friendlies on home soil during the FIFA international window from September 21 to October 6, according to ESPN Argentina. The first game is scheduled at El Monumental stadium against either a South American or CONCACAF opponent. The other two matches are expected to take place outside Buenos Aires, with Cordoba and Rosario as the leading candidates to host the team’s homecoming fixtures.

Asia Tour Plans Abandoned

On Sportscenter’s morning show, ESPN journalist Diego Monroig shared that there’s about a 90 percent chance the team will stay home for the entire window. The initial plan for an Asian tour, including a near-confirmed match against China, fell through due to Messi’s decision to retire internationally. This change halted the overseas travel arrangements abruptly.

World Cup Qualification Format Under Discussion

CONMEBOL is currently in talks with FIFA over South America’s final World Cup qualification spots. Discussions focus on whether the automatic qualifications granted to co-hosts Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay will count within the continent’s usual five-and-a-half places or be added on top. Regardless of the outcome, Argentina has formally requested to participate fully throughout the qualification process.

A Busy Autumn Awaits Coach Scaloni

The autumn schedule offers Scaloni an important chance to adjust tactics after the narrow World Cup final defeat. Another FIFA window follows quickly from November 9 to 17, adding pressure for the team to adapt without their iconic former captain. This transitional phase is key for integrating a new generation before the 2027 season begins.

  • International Window Dates: September 21 - October 6, November 9 - 17
  • Planned Home Match Locations: El Monumental (Buenos Aires), Cordoba, Rosario
  • Recent Result: 0-1 loss to Spain in World Cup Final
  • Cancelled Tour: Asia (including a likely fixture vs. China)
  • Qualification Talks: CONMEBOL and FIFA discussing South America's World Cup berth allocation

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