The highly anticipated AFCON-Uruguay football showdown is now officially off the table, marking a significant shift in venue plans.
In early February, Ignacio Alonso, President of the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), identified Morocco as a potential opponent for Celeste, aiming to accommodate the preferences of their coach, Marcelo Bielsa.
Talks with the Moroccan Federation (FRMF) progressed, with indications pointing towards a match on March 21 or 22 in Lille, France. However, a recent announcement by the FRMF has brought about a change in the program.
The Atlas Lions will now face Angola on March 22 and Mauritania on March 26 at the Grand Stade d’Agadir, scrapping the proposed clash with Uruguay.
The alteration in plans is attributed to a decisive decree by King Mohammed VI of Morocco.
“The match against Morocco is complicated because the king did not want to play in Europe but in Casablanca,” revealed Carlos Manta, a member of the AUF Executive Committee, during the 100% Sport program on Sport 890 radio.
While discussions persist, it’s confirmed that the match won’t transpire in March. Alternatively, Celeste might square off against the newly crowned champions of AFCON 2023, such as Ivory Coast, Nigeria, or the 2021 African champions, Senegal.
The Uruguayan objective remains unaltered – to play in France or, if necessary, in Spain. The evolving dynamics showcase the intricate negotiations and decisions shaping international football fixtures.
Las opciones que baraja la AUF para los amistosos de marzo tras la negativa de Marruecos https://t.co/BfnCt4ioqb
— FútbolUy (@futbolportaluy) February 22, 2024
