Angolan FA Calls Off March International Friendlies Against Jordan, Iran Amid Regional Instability

Angolan FA Calls Off March International Friendlies Against Jordan, Iran Amid Regional Instability

By Niyi Busari 

The Angolan national football team will not play any friendly matches during the March FIFA international window after planned fixtures against Jordan and Iran were cancelled due to rising tensions in the Middle East, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The decision was announced on March 10 by the Angolan Football Federation (FAF) in an official statement shared on its social media platforms.

Angola had initially scheduled two international friendlies in Dubai as part of its preparations, with matches planned against Jordan and Iran. However, escalating regional tensions and ongoing conflict in the Middle East prompted the federation to reconsider the arrangements.

In its statement, the FAF said the worsening security situation in the region required a careful reassessment of the team’s plans.

“The worsening of the current conflict in the Middle East and the instability felt in the region have forced a serious, cautious and responsible reassessment of all arrangements initially planned,” the federation stated.

The Angolan football authorities explained that the safety and well-being of the national team had to take priority over sporting considerations.

According to the federation, efforts were made to explore the possibility of retaining at least one of the matches through an urgent rescheduling. However, after evaluating the financial implications, logistical and administrative challenges, as well as the potential sporting value, the proposal was ultimately abandoned.

The FAF noted that organizing only one friendly under such circumstances would not have been “rational or strategic given the resources required.”

As a result, the Palancas Negras will not participate in any friendly matches during the March international window.

Despite the cancellation, the federation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the national team is adequately prepared for upcoming competitions.

“The FAF remains fully committed to creating, at the appropriate time, the best conditions for Angola to continue asserting itself with dignity, ambition and competitiveness on the international stage,” the statement concluded.