By Kwame Bediako
The Argentine Football Association has reportedly turned down a $1 million offer from Morocco for an international friendly in Rabat during the October window. Although negotiations had reportedly advanced, Argentina are said to prefer playing their upcoming friendlies at home so supporters can watch the national team in person.
The proposed match would have brought together two of international football’s leading teams: the 2022 World Cup champions and Morocco, whose historic run in Qatar established them as one of Africa’s strongest sides. Argentina’s decision is reportedly unrelated to Morocco or the value of the offer and instead reflects the federation’s scheduling and home-fixture preferences.
Morocco’s next fixtures
Morocco will now continue searching for another high-profile opponent while focusing first on their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign:
- Morocco vs Gabon — September 25, Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat; 7:00pm GMT.
- Lesotho vs Morocco — September 29, Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein; 1:00pm GMT.
South African referee Abongile Tom has been appointed for the match against Gabon. Unless Argentina change their plans or negotiations resume, the proposed October friendly in Rabat appears unlikely to take place.
