Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Argentina is reportedly ready to replace Indonesia as host of the 2023 U-20 World Cup.
This news came from Argentine media, Double Amarilla, moments after PSSI announced it was canceling the draw for the U-20 World Cup.
The Argentinian media has received confirmation from FIFA sources that the group draw has been officially suspended, although the world soccer body has yet to issue an official statement.
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Double Amarilla also reported that FIFA is currently evaluating Indonesia’s readiness as the host. The crucial decision will be announced by FIFA in the next few hours.
“Everything is being evaluated and will provide answers in the next few hours,” said a FIFA source.
The Argentine media also said that the AFA (Argentine Football Federation) would soon submit an official request to host the event. The offer will be made if Indonesia withdraws or FIFA decides to find a replacement host.
“The next few hours will be the key to see if there is a diplomatic agreement or indeed a change in the organizer’s location is being considered,” wrote Double Amarilla.
The wave of rejection of Israel’s participation in the 2023 U-20 World Cup has begun to spread in recent days. Moreover, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, has officially sent a letter rejecting Israel’s arrival.
Koster explained in his letter that the refusal was made diplomatically to support the Palestinian cause apart from pressure from the Israeli government.
Bali is one of six cities prepared to host the match. Captain I Wayan Dipta Stadium was appointed as one of the venues to hold a youth world soccer party.
Argentina itself failed to qualify for the U-20 World Cup finals after losing to compete in the qualifying rounds. However, they are certain to qualify if they are officially appointed as the host to replace Indonesia
(Gambas:Video CNN)
(jun)