Barcelona have called off their pre-season friendly in Tangier, Morocco.
The match that was scheduled for August 15th against a local side will no longer take place.
In a statement, the club said: “FC Barcelona informs that the men’s first team friendly match in Tangier potentially scheduled for 15 August has been ruled out.
“In light of the current uncertainty and circumstances, FC Barcelona considers playing the match would be inappropriate.”
Why Barcelona have cancelled the Morocco match
Last week an estimated 78,000 Moroccan migrants attempted to swim from the country to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta outside of the EU.
At the time of writing 141 have died from the attempt.
Reports from international media and those who made the swim have claimed social media misinformation suggested they would be allowed to stay in Spain.
However, the vast majority have quickly returned, and the issue has been jumped upon by populist governments across the world.
Morocco crisis increases tensions with Spain and Portugal
As such, it’s further increased tensions between Spain and 2030 World Cup co-hosts Morocco and Portugal.
In fact, the Portuguese Green Party are calling for Morocco to be stripped of their hosting rights.
The Green Party spokesperson, Jorge Pinto, said: “In light of recent events, a courageous decision is necessary.
“Portugal cannot participate in the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup with Morocco.
“For its part, LIVRE will do everything in its power to prevent us from being sadly associated with organising this event alongside a country that has not demonstrated its competence and does not inspire confidence.”
He added: “The initial proposal involved Portugal, Spain, and Ukraine hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
“For valid reasons, Ukraine withdrew, and Morocco took its place.
“This possibility is now untenable. Not only is Morocco not a reliable partner, but it is now part of the reactionary international group that will use any means to weaken the European political sphere.”
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