The Argentine Football Association confirmed on Friday that the world champions will face Mauritania on 27 March at La Bombonera.

Alongside the announcement, Lionel Scaloni included Real Madrid prospect Franco Mastantuono and Strasbourg forward Joaquin Panichelli in the squad. Mastantuono's initial omission had raised eyebrows, but the midfielder has now been drafted in.

Argentina had already scheduled a second friendly against Guatemala on 31 March, also in Buenos Aires. The revised plans follow the collapse of talks between CONMEBOL and UEFA over the Finalissima against Spain, which was ultimately abandoned due to scheduling issues linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Finalissima had originally been set for 27 March at Lusail Stadium in Doha, but organisers were unable to agree on a new date after complications arose.

In an official statement, the AFA confirmed the new fixture, noting that Scaloni's squad will use the match as part of their preparations before travelling to defend their World Cup title.

Argentina will now face two opponents who did not qualify for the upcoming tournament, with both matches taking place at La Bombonera within four days. The games could carry added significance as they may represent Lionel Messi's final appearances on home soil for the national team.

Following this double-header, Argentina are expected to play two further friendlies in early June, likely in the United States, as their World Cup preparations intensify.

F. Mastantuono

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