Lionel Messi was expected to appear in Chicago to face Puerto Rico at Soldier Field next Monday, October 13 Argentina‘s US Tour before the October international break. However, Plans have changed as the location has now moved out of the state of Illinois.
After Inter Miami’s MLS match against the New England Revolution, Messi did not have to travel far, As the Argentina national team has used Inter Miami’s facilities for training. Preparation appeared to be on track for Friday’s friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium, before driving to Chicago to take on Puerto Rico – until a decision was made to move the match.
Due to recent social unrest and ongoing protests in the city, authorities have decided to move the match between Argentina and Puerto Rico from Chicago. This comes after the deployment of President Donald Trump’s National Guard in several US cities, including Chicago.
An official announcement confirming that the change is still pending, But the development situation has forced organizers to cancel the Chicago location. Both the Argentine and Puerto Rican football associations remain committed to holding the match on the same date and with the same opponent, leaving only the host stadium to be determined.
Chicago Fire FC and Inter Miami CF at Soldier Field.
Chase Stadium emerges as the most likely replacement
The Argentina national team has already completed its second day of training at the Inter Miami facilities. However, with several players in action over the weekend, sessions have been lighter Both games against Venezuela and Puerto Rico remain key in the team’s World Cup preparations. Finding a new location for the second friendly is therefore a top priority.
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According to Argentinian journalist Gastón Sweats, Miami is the leading candidate to host the rescheduled match, with Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium the most likely venue. The stadium is already set to host Venezuela on Friday, and with no travel required, it would be a strategic option for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized the importance of these matches in shaping the team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.’You must come. I’m the coach – the players are resting and looking ahead to what’s to come. We’re going to try to see some new players, people that we’ve brought in to see if they can come on board. We must take advantage of these matches to evaluate them‘To the press at an event in Miami on Tuesday.
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