"Argentina's normal base is River Plate's Monumental Stadium. With the biggest capacity in South America, it would be ideal for such a showpiece occasion. But there was a problem. It was already booked for concerts by AC/DC, so Argentina, then, were forced to take the highway -- not to hell -- but to the much smaller ground of Boca Juniors' La Bombonera."
"Guatemala were lined up to provide the opposition. But FIFA stepped in, saying that Guatemala were already playing another game in Italy, and regulations prevent sides from appearing on two different continents on the same FIFA date."
"The last-minute solution, then, was to bring in Mauritania for a match last Friday, and then Zambia for Tuesday's send-off. This is unorthodox preparation."
Argentina's national team faced difficulties in arranging a farewell match before the World Cup due to venue conflicts and opposition issues. The team initially planned to play at River Plate's Monumental Stadium, but it was booked for concerts. Consequently, they moved to Boca Juniors' La Bombonera. Guatemala was set as the opponent, but FIFA regulations prevented them from playing on two continents simultaneously. Ultimately, Mauritania and Zambia were chosen as opponents for Argentina's send-off matches.
Read at ESPN.com
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