Yamil Bukele, the president of the Salvadoran Football Federation (FESFUT), announced on Wednesday the unfortunate cancellation of the much-anticipated friendly match between the El Salvador national team and Morocco, originally scheduled for June 3 in Maryland. This event was set to take place during the last FIFA date prior to the 2026 World Cup, making its cancellation all the more disappointing for fans and players alike.
The Moroccan national team, who are set to compete in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti, expressed their regrets regarding the cancellation through a statement released by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). This statement was subsequently shared by Bukele on his social media platforms. The FRMF elaborated on their decision, explaining that they would be missing at least one-third of their players due to recent outcomes in continental club competitions across both Asia and Europe. These competitions are culminating in finals during the week commencing May 25, potentially involving clubs that feature Moroccan international players. Additionally, changes in the national competition schedule in Morocco and Saudi Arabia, along with injuries to several key players, contributed to their inability to fulfill the match.
In light of these circumstances, the Moroccan team deemed it impractical to travel to the United States on May 29 with a diminished squad. However, they proposed rescheduling the friendly match to June 2 in Morocco, offering to cover all logistical expenses. This proposal was ultimately declined by Bukele, who pointed out that FIFA prohibits teams from playing two friendly matches on different continents in such close succession. Furthermore, the coaching staff led by Hernán Darío Gómez has already planned two matches in the United States, which would disrupt their existing schedule.
With the friendly against Morocco off the table, Bukele confirmed that El Salvador is set to face a familiar opponent, Qatar, on June 6 at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Interestingly, this match will not be broadcast on television at the request of Qatari authorities. Bukele has promised to announce the identity of a second opponent soon, which could provide further preparation as the World Cup approaches.
The last encounter between El Salvador and the Qatari team took place on July 24, 2021, resulting in a narrow 3-2 defeat for El Salvador during the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup. With just 50 days remaining until the start of the World Cup, this upcoming match presents an unexpected opportunity for redemption.
As reported by futbolcentroamerica.com.
