Uefa to make decision on moving Finalissima match featuring Lionel Messi away from Qatar next week | OneFootball

A decision is expected next week on whether a high-profile football match featuring Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Spain will be moved from Qatar, amid escalating conflict in the Middle East.

European football’s governing body, Uefa, which is co-organising the Finalissima match on 27 March with South American confederation CONMEBOL, has stated that no alternative venues are currently under consideration.

The uncertainty stems from Qatar, one of several Gulf nations hosting American military bases, having been targeted by Iran following air strikes launched by the United States and Israel last weekend.

A Uefa spokesperson confirmed: "We are aware of the speculation surrounding the Finalissima, given the situation in the region. Discussions are ongoing with the local organisers who have made a huge effort to make the match a success. A final decision is anticipated towards the end of next week."

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The previous Finalissima in 2022 was played at Wembley (Zac Goodwin/PA) (PA Archive)

The spokesperson added: "At present, there are no alternative venues being considered. We will not be commenting further until a decision is made."

The Finalissima brings together the champions of Europe and South America. The only previous edition since its revival in 2022 saw Argentina triumph over Italy 3-0 at Wembley.

The upcoming fixture is scheduled to be played at the Lusail stadium, which hosted the 2022 World Cup final, also won by Argentina.

Messi guided Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in thrilling fashion in Qatar four years ago, with his side beating France on penalties in the final.

Argentina led 2-0 at the interval thanks to goals from Messi and Angel Di Maria, but a quickfire Kylian Mbappe brace in the final 10 minutes of the second half took the game to extra time.

Messi restored Argentina’s advantage in extra time, only for Mbappe to complete his hat-trick and take the game to penalties.