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Lionel Messi was expected to make his appearance in Chicago to face Puerto Rico at Soldier Field next Monday, October 13, during Argentina’s US tour for the October international break. However, plans have changed, as the venue has now been moved out of the state of Illinois.
Following Inter Miami’s MLS match against the New England Revolution, Messi didn’t need to travel far, as the Argentina national team has been using Inter Miami’s facilities for training. Preparation appeared to be on track for Friday’s friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium, before traveling to Chicago to face Puerto Rico — until a decision was made to relocate the match.
Due to recent social unrest and ongoing protests in the city, authorities have decided to move the game between Argentina and Puerto Rico out of Chicago. This comes after President Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard to several US cities, including Chicago.
An official announcement confirming the change is still pending, but the developing situation has forced organizers to cancel the Chicago venue. Both the Argentine and Puerto Rican football associations remain committed to holding the game on the same date and with the same opponent, leaving only the host stadium yet to be determined.
Chicago Fire FC and Inter Miami CF at Soldier Field.
Argentina’s national team has already completed its second day of training at Inter Miami’s facilities. Given that several players were in action over the weekend, sessions have been lighter, though both matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico remain key in the team’s World Cup preparations. Finding a new venue for the second friendly is therefore a top priority.
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FIFA World Cup
