Barcelona cancel Morocco friendly over border crisis

Spanish football giants Barcelona have called off their pre-season friendly against Moroccan club Ittihad Riadi Tangier, citing concerns over the ongoing border crisis in Ceuta. The match, originally scheduled for August 15 in Tangier, was deemed inappropriate due to the uncertainty surrounding the situation. Barcelona's statement acknowledged the ongoing uncertainty and deemed playing the match unsuitable.

While the club did not specify the exact reason for the cancellation, reports suggest it is linked to tensions in Ceuta, a Spanish territory situated on the North African coast bordering Morocco. The region has been under scrutiny due to a surge in migrant crossings from Morocco, causing diplomatic and security concerns among European nations.

Thousands of migrants have crossed into Ceuta, with authorities working to manage the humanitarian and border challenges. Several thousand remain in the enclave. The cancellation further complicates Barcelona's pre-season preparations, which had already been disrupted by the cancellation of a friendly against Preston North End following a training camp in the UK.

The club is now set to continue with other fixtures, including a match against Nottingham Forest in Udine, Italy, and a game against Egyptian side Al Ahly on August 19. Manager Hansi Flick's team is expected to commence their La Liga title defense on August 23 against Elche, aiming for a strong start to the new season.