Zambia’s Chipolopolo will take on world champions Argentina in a pre-FIFA World Cup 2026 friendly on March 31 in Buenos Aires, the Argentine Football Association has confirmed.
The match at La Bombonera kicks off at 8:15 PM local time, forming part of Argentina’s two game home window during the FIFA international break.
Argentina had originally lined up Spain and Qatar as its March opponents, with the clashes set to form part of the Qatar Football Festival including a Finalissima at the Lusail Stadium. The tournament was called off amid the ongoing West Asian conflict, forcing the Albiceleste to revise its schedule.
Guatemala had been lined up as the second opponent before FIFA regulations barring a nation from playing matches on two different continents during a single international window saw Zambia come in as replacements.
The AFA acknowledged Guatemala’s efforts and willingness before the regulatory hurdle arose.
Argentina’s first friendly of the window is set for March 27, also at home, with Lionel Scaloni’s side using both matches to fine-tune ahead of the World Cup on home soil later this year.
By Canaan Siame
