The anticipated international friendly clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Albiceleste of Argentina has changed venue.
The encounter, initially slated for China, will now take place in the United States of America in March, although the exact date is yet to be announced.
The relocation of the match comes after a disagreement arose between Argentina’s superstar, Lionel Messi, and Chinese soccer authorities. Messi found himself at the center of controversy when he declined to participate in a friendly match between his club, Inter Miami, and Hong Kong X1 in China.
The decision drew ire from Chinese authorities, who were disappointed by Messi’s absence despite the player dealing with a groin injury at the time.
In light of these circumstances, the friendly between the Super Eagles and Argentina, originally planned for China, had to be canceled.
Argentina is set to use this opportunity for international preparation, with another friendly against El Salvador also on the agenda for March.
For the Super Eagles, the match against Argentina will serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic scheduled for June.
