Lionel Messi and Argentina have scheduled a Copa America warmup against Guatemala at FedEx Field this June.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Argentina schedule pre-Copa America friendlySet to take on GuatemalaGame to be played at FedEx FieldWHAT HAPPENED?

The match will take place on June 14, six days before the tournament begins. The two countries will travel to the United States capital city for the contest, with it being Argentina's final warmup ahead of Copa America. Guatemala did not qualify.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

FedEx Field is home to NFL side Washington Commanders, and as a result, the playing surface is not particularly the most appropriate for a soccer match. However, the Commanders plan to adjust not only the surface, but the stands as well to allow for a wider playing area. U.S. head coach Gregg Berhalter was informed by organizers that any future USMNT game at the venue would be the same. The measurements of the pitch would be 70-yards wide – four yards short of FIFA's recommendation, but within the parameters.

During the summer of 2023, the Premier League Summer Series in the United States saw matches played at FedEx Field. The expectation is that the pitch and stadium adjustments will align with how the Premier League games were played at the stadium.

WHAT FEDEX FIELD REPRESENTATIVES SAID

“We plan to do that for these games and continue to do that so we can attract these big, competitive soccer games,” said Trista Langdon, the Commanders’ senior vice president for operations and guest experience. “So we’ll be ready.”

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR LIONEL MESSI AND ARGENTINA?

The Albiceleste had two friendlies lined up for this March against Nigeria and the Ivory Coast, but they have since been cancelled by Chinese authorities due to a bust-up between Messi and their government. The Argentine was supposed to play in a preseason match with Inter Miami against Hong Kong Team, but the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was rested, much to the dismay of officials, fans and their government.