Real Madrid News
Official: Finalissima match between Spain and Argentina cancelled after AFA reject Bernabeu proposal
The highly anticipated 2026 Finalissima between European champions Spain and Copa América winners Argentina has been officially cancelled.
While the escalating conflict in the Middle East was the primary catalyst for moving the game away from Qatar, the match ultimately collapsed after the Argentinian Football Association (AFA) rejected a proposal to hold the historic fixture at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu.
Security concerns derail the Doha plan
The match was originally scheduled for March 27 at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, a venue synonymous with Argentina’s 2022 World Cup glory.
However, recent geopolitical tensions have severely disrupted international travel and airspace.
UEFA and the local organising committee concluded that the safety of fans and players could not be guaranteed, forcing the cancellation of the Qatar Football Festival.
In a statement, UEFA expressed deep disappointment that circumstances and timing denied the teams the chance to compete in Doha.
In an effort to save the match, UEFA proposed relocating the Finalissima to the Santiago Bernabeu. The offer included a 50-50 split of supporters.
A second option was also presented, suggesting a two-legged format with one match played at the Bernabéu and a return leg in Buenos Aires.
Despite the prestige of the venue, the AFA reportedly found these options unacceptable.
Argentina countered with a proposal to play the game after the 2026 World Cup, but the Spanish Federation was unable to accommodate this due to a lack of available dates in their congested calendar.
UEFA even attempted to secure a neutral venue in Europe for March 30, but this was also turned down by the South American federation.
With no agreement reached, the fixture has been officially scrapped, and the Santiago Bernabeu has missed out on what would have been one of the most historic nights in recent memory.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
