Barcelona cancel Morocco friendly over border crisis
August 7, 2026 5:23 pm
Spanish champions Barcelona have cancelled their pre-season friendly against Moroccan club Ittihad Riadi Tangier due to concerns surrounding the ongoing border crisis in Ceuta.
The match was scheduled to take place in Tangier on August 15 as part of Barcelona’s preparations for the new football season, but the club announced that it would no longer proceed.
Barcelona said the decision was taken because of the uncertainty surrounding the current circumstances.
“In light of the current uncertainty and circumstances, FC Barcelona considers playing the match would be inappropriate,” the club said in a statement on Friday.
Although the club did not disclose the specific reason for the cancellation, reports indicate that the decision is linked to tensions around Ceuta, a Spanish territory located on the North African coast bordering Morocco.
The situation in Ceuta has attracted international attention following a surge in migrant crossings from Morocco, creating diplomatic and security concerns among European countries.
Thousands of migrants crossed into the Spanish enclave, with authorities working to manage the humanitarian and border challenges. While many have since returned to Morocco, several thousand remain in Ceuta.
The cancellation adds to disruptions in Barcelona’s pre-season preparations. The club had earlier seen a friendly against Preston North End called off after its training camp in the United Kingdom, where the team played Birmingham City.
Barcelona are expected to continue their preparations with upcoming fixtures, including a friendly against Nottingham Forest in Udine, Italy, and a match against Egyptian side Al Ahly on August 19.
Manager Hansi Flick’s team will begin their La Liga title defence on August 23 against Elche as they aim to make a strong start to the new campaign.
Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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