Lionel Messi Argentina 2024Getty
Tom Hindle

Argentina, Puerto Rico friendly reportedly moved from Chicago to Florida amid immigration crackdown

A match between Argentina and Puerto Rico, originally scheduled for next week in Chicago, has been relocated to Florida amid the immigration crackdown in the city, according to the Associated Press. The friendly was set to be played on Oct. 13 at Soldier Field but will be moved to Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.

  • Argentine source confirms move

    According to the AP report, an Argentine Football Association executive confirmed the move. President Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard to quell protests against the immigration crackdown in Chicago. 

    More than 1,000 immigrants have been arrested since a crackdown started last month in the Chicago area. 

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  • Argentina friendlies

    Argentina, the defending World Cup champion, will play Venezuela in another friendly match on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Lionel Messi was called up to play in both matches.

  • Politics impacting soccer

    There were widespread concerns about the presence of ICE agents at Club World Cup games earlier this year, while Border Patrol was present at the opener of the competition - also held in Florida.