On 1/3, the Qatar Football Association (QFA) announced the suspension of all domestic tournaments until further notice.

This move comes amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East, following attacks on bases in Qatar, which led many Gulf nations to close their airspace.

Messi lifts the Copa America 2024 trophy with the Argentina national team. Photo: Reuters.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, given these escalating tensions, the Intercontinental Super Cup match between Argentina and Spain, where Lionel Messi could face Lamine Yamal for the first time, is at risk of postponement or cancellation. The game is scheduled for 27/3 in Doha, the capital of Qatar.

The Intercontinental Super Cup is organized by the Supreme Committee of Qatar, and this body will make the final decision on whether to proceed with the event.

All decisions will prioritize the safety of both national teams and depend on geopolitical developments in the coming period. In addition to the Intercontinental Super Cup, Spain is also scheduled to play a friendly against Egypt in Doha three days later, while Argentina will face host Qatar on 31/3.

The Spanish Football Federation (SFF) and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) have both been closely monitoring the situation in recent days, awaiting official updates. Both parties are also reviewing the contractual terms for organizing the Intercontinental Super Cup, as well as the insurance coverage in case of cancellation.

Meanwhile, neither the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) nor the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has received any official notification regarding the match.

The Intercontinental Super Cup, also known as Finalissima, is a contest between the reigning champions of Europe and South America. The match has been held three times: in 1985, 1993, and 2022. France defeated Uruguay 2-0 in the first edition. Argentina claimed victory in the two most recent editions, overcoming Denmark and Italy.

Messi contributed to Argentina's Copa America 2024 victory, while Yamal also shone during Spain's Euro 2024 triumph. The two teams have met 14 times, with both sides recording six wins, two draws, and six losses. However, they have only faced each other once in a major tournament: during the 1966 World Cup group stage in England. On that occasion, Argentina defeated Spain 2-1 at Villa Park.

Hong Duy (according to AS)