Argentina to play Uruguay at La Bombonera in November

Argentina is playing its upcoming match against Uruguay at the historic Alberto José Armando Stadium, typically referred to as La Bombonera, in Buenos Aires. Officials selected the historic arena after considering two other stadiums in the buildup to the contest. Argentina will host their fellow South American rivals in a massive World Cup qualifier on Thursday, November 16th.

La Bombonera, or “the chocolate box,” is the current home of Boca Juniors. The Argentine club has collected the second-most Primera División titles in the league’s history. They have called the stadium their home since 1940. The Argentina national team does not exactly have a home arena. However, it has played a plethora of fixtures at La Bombonera over the years.

Taylor Swift concerts affect scheduling of match

The upcoming match was previously expected to be played at the Estadio Monumental. River Plate’s home arena, however, is set to be stormed by Taylor Swift and her enthusiastic fans. Swift will perform at Estadio Monumental for three consecutive nights beginning on November 9th.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has concerns about the state of the pitch at the stadium due to the concert series. Fellow performer The Weeknd also previously played at the arena earlier in the month and soccer officials were not happy about the grass following the concert. This means that the venue for the Uruguay match had to be moved.

Others suggested Argentina could have played Uruguay at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Cordoba. Argentine players, however, were not too keen on the travel between Buenos Aires and Cordoba. The two cities are about 430 miles apart (more than a seven-hour drive). Brazil recently played far from its capital in a World Cup qualifier. Neymar lashed out at the distances the team traveled and the treatment from home supporters.

Uruguay vs Argentina at Bombonera affects Messi friendlies in China

Argentina currently leads the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying after winning all four of their fixtures so far. Lionel Messi returns as captain of the World Cup winners, and he leads the side on the pitch. The superstar and his Inter Miami teammates recently completed their 2023 Major League Soccer season. However, they will soon travel to play a pair of friendlies in China.

The two matchups in Asia are Nov. 5 and 6. These games are close to the important Uruguay fixture. Therefore, it is unclear how much Messi will feature for Inter Miami in China in November. Nevertheless, the star is going to travel with his club teammates to Asia and play in the games.

Uruguay is currently second in the South American qualifiers, five points behind Argentina. The hosts could open a massive gap atop the group if they can record a victory in the upcoming match. However, the Sky Blue is riding high after coming off of a historic win against Brazil. Uruguay beat their rivals last week for the first time in over 20 years. Argentina will also have to face powerhouse Brazil five days following the upcoming Uruguay game.

For soccer fans in the United States, Telemundo will broadcast the Argentina and Uruguay match. Over-the-top service ViX is also streaming the fixture.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Fotoarena, SOPA Images.