Argentina’s national team will have a modified schedule in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with key changes affecting the final international window before the tournament, per reports by journalist Gastón Edul.
One of the main updates is that the ten days prior to the start of the World Cup will now be vacant. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is planning to fill that period with two international friendlies. Previously scheduled matches against Mexico and another opponent have been canceled and will be reworked as part of this new plan.
Finalissima dates confirmed
The Finalissima between Argentina national team and Spain national team is officially set for March 27, 2026, at Lusail Stadium in Qatar. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. Argentina time.
The squad call-up window for the Finalissima will run from March 9 to March 25. Training sessions will begin on Monday, March 23, in Doha, Qatar.
Friendly match in Qatar
Following the Finalissima, Argentina will remain in Qatar for an additional friendly match. The team will face Qatar national team on March 31 at Lusail Stadium. The kickoff time for that match has not yet been confirmed.
In total, Argentina will spend eight days in Qatar, combining training sessions with the two international matches.
World Cup preparation timeline
At the end of May, the coaching staff is expected to announce the final 26-player squad for the FIFA World Cup.
The final FIFA international window before the tournament will take place between June 1 and June 9. During that period, Argentina is scheduled to play two preparatory matches, although the opponents have not yet been confirmed.
The 2026 World Cup will officially begin on June 11, marking the start of Argentina’s title defense on the world’s biggest stage.
