Moroccan FA Proposes Relocating El Salvador Friendly to Rabat Due to Organizational Issues, Player Absences
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has approved a new adjustment to the national team's schedule concerning the friendly match against El Salvador, originally set for next June as part of the Atlas Lions' preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The federation has decided against holding the match in the United States, opting instead to schedule it in Morocco.
In an official correspondence sent to its Salvadoran counterpart, the FRMF stated that this decision was necessitated by several new developments. These include the coincidence of the continental club competition finals in Europe and Asia with the international break, alongside adjustments to the national league schedules in both Morocco and Saudi Arabia, as well as varying injuries sustained by several key players.
The football governing body clarified that these factors would directly impact the national team's composition, with a significant number of players expected to be absent. This would result in playing the match with an incomplete squad, which does not align with the technical objectives desired from this preparatory stage.
Despite this change, the FRMF emphasized its commitment to proceeding with the match against El Salvador, given its importance in the World Cup preparation program. The federation proposed relocating the game to Morocco, specifically Rabat, on June 2, instead of the American capital, Washington D.C.
The FRMF also affirmed its readiness to cover all costs associated with the travel and accommodation of the Salvadoran national team delegation. This gesture reflects its desire to ensure the success of this friendly fixture and maintain strong relations between both parties.
The federation concluded its correspondence by offering an apology for the change, while reaffirming its openness to continued coordination with the Salvadoran Football Federation to reach a final arrangement that ensures the match is played under suitable conditions and strengthens the bonds of cooperation between the two sides.
