The Finalissima, a highly anticipated match between Spain and Argentina, is nearing its official announcement. While the exact date and venue are expected to be confirmed soon, 28/3/2026 in Qatar is a likely possibility. In addition to this main event, relevant parties are working to negotiate separate friendly matches for each national team during the same FIFA Days window.

These supplementary friendly matches offer dual benefits. They would not only help players maintain their form but also promise significant financial benefits for the four involved parties: the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), the Argentine Football Association (AFA), the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), and the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).

Messi lifts the Copa America 2024 with the Argentina national team. *Reuters*

Spain and Argentina would be featured together in a commercial package, creating substantial appeal for potential opponents. This is particularly due to the presence of world and European champions, notably Lionel Messi, just months before the 2026 World Cup. Excluding pre-tournament training camps, these would be the final important friendly matches for both championship contenders.

The allure of such matches has led many national teams, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, to express interest in facing Spain and Argentina. Saudi Arabia has even explored the possibility of hosting the Finalissima itself, though Qatar remains the preferred venue.

One proposed option is that after the Finalissima, one team would play Qatar, and the other would face Saudi Arabia, with both matches taking place in the respective host nations. Both Qatar and Saudi Arabia are World Cup participants with financial backing, a desire to elevate their footballing image, and a willingness to invest heavily in hosting major matches. They currently have no friendlies scheduled for this period.

However, a matchup against European powers is unlikely. Germany has confirmed a match against Ivory Coast on 30/3, France is set to play Brazil and Venezuela in the United States, Portugal will face Mexico and the United States, and Brazil has scheduled matches against France and Croatia, also in the United States.

Consequently, the chances of inviting European "giants" as opponents for these additional friendlies are limited. This necessitates careful planning by all parties to optimize both commercial benefits and the quality of the matches.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the clash between Lamine Yamal, Spain's star, and Messi in the upcoming Intercontinental Super Cup. The two players share several similarities: both emerged from La Masia, shone at Barca, wear the number 10 jersey, play as right-wing forwards, and are left-footed.

Hong Duy (according to AS)