Three star players blocked from traveling: Argentina’s trip to Angola hits unexpected snag | OneFootball

World champions to face Angola without key trio due to health entry regulations

Star players blocked from traveling: Argentina’s trip to Angola hits unexpected snag

Argentina’s national team preparations for their upcoming friendly against Angola suffered late blow as three player including star forward Julian Alvarez were ruled out of traveling to Luanda due to vaccination requirements.

The Atletico Madrid striker along with Nahuel Molina & Giuliano Simeone will not feature for La Albiceleste in Friday’s match after failing to provide proof of vaccination against yellow fever, a mandatory condition for entry into the southern African nation.

According to reports from Buenos Aires, the Angolan health authorities strictly enforce the rule as part of their disease prevention measures following severe outbreak nearly decade ago.

The 2015 /16 epidemic infected over 1100 people and claimed 168 live prompting the country to impose permanent vaccination checks for all incoming travelers.

Setback for Scaloni’s plans

Head coach Lionel Scaloni will be forced to adjust his plans as Argentina continue their preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Health protocols take precedence

Argentina’s football federation AFA confirmed that the trio’s exclusion was purely due to health entry protocols emphasizing that there were no disciplinary or injury concerns.

The affected players are expected to remain in Spain and could rejoin the squad once the team returns to Europe for their next friendly.