Liverpool midfielder Alexis McAllister has reacted to the collapse of Argentina’s plans to face Spain in the Finalsima, after weeks of uncertainty.
The match was originally scheduled for March in Qatar, but that plan soon fell through. Rising political tensions in the Middle East made the location impractical. As a result, UEFA and CONMEBOL were forced to return to the negotiating table.
From there the situation became more complicated. Several options were discussed, including holding the game in Spain, moving it to another European venue or even splitting it into two legs. However, no consensus was reached on any of those options.
Why did Finalissima collapse?
The main issue was not just logistics. It was also about checks and balances.
UEFA’s priority was to keep the match in Europe and play it before the World Cup cycle intensified. Spain was open to that idea, with Madrid being mentioned as a possible host.
Argentina and CONMEBOL, on the other hand, insisted on a more neutral solution. They were reluctant to accept a one-off match in Europe and instead suggested either a truly neutral venue or postponing the match.
That difference in approach created a standoff. With no agreement on place or time and no real need to force an agreement, the match was ultimately cancelled.
In practice, Finalissima did not collapse because of any one decision. It disappeared as a result of competing priorities between UEFA and CONMEBOL, when Qatar was no longer an option.
Mac Allister’s response
For McAllister, this situation removes a rare opportunity to play in a high-profile international final against elite European opposition. He has talked before about the much-desired stability, As we covered at the time.
The 27-year-old has been a key figure for Liverpool this season. Under Arne Slot his role has become more defined, often operating as a deeper playmaker while supporting the attacking phases.
That form has added up to his international status. He remains a regular starter for Argentina and was expected to feature prominently against Spain.
Instead, Argentina will now face Mauritania and Zambia in friendly matches at La Bombonera.
talking to TYC SportsMcAllister did not hide his disappointment.
“It’s a shame (not playing the Finalsima) because it was a good match. It didn’t happen and now we have to concentrate on friendly matches.” He said.
He then reinforced the players’ perspective on the situation: “Matches are won on the pitch. We are players and we want to play, that’s the most important thing.”
McAllister also clarified that the team still hopes that the competition can be revived in the future. “I’d like to play it later,” He added.
what happens next
For now, Finalissima remains in limbo rather than being officially rescheduled.
This allows players like Mac Allister to focus on regular international fixtures rather than a major intercontinental clash. Still, his comments underlined the widespread sentiment among the Argentina team.
They wanted to play. They were ready for this. And, at least from a player’s perspective, it’s hard to accept the decision to let it go.
🇸🇪 Demba N’Diaye | “Liverpool or Real Madrid”
➡️The defender expressed his desire to join the Reds or Los Blancos
📈There’s nothing wrong with dreaming https://t.co/Ilupk2QBhX #lfc– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 23 March 2026
#players #play #Liverpool #star #disappointed #cancellation #national #matches
