Barcelona cancel Morocco friendly over border crisis

FC Barcelona has canceled its pre-season friendly against Moroccan club Ittihad Riadi Tangier, originally set for August 15 in Tangier. The club cited "current uncertainty and circumstances" as the reason, stating that playing the match would be inappropriate given the situation.

While not explicitly stated, reports link the cancellation to heightened tensions surrounding Ceuta, a Spanish enclave bordering Morocco. The region has seen a significant surge in migrant crossings from Morocco, creating diplomatic and security concerns for European countries. Thousands of migrants entered Ceuta, and while many have returned, a substantial number remain.

This cancellation is the latest in a series of disruptions to Barcelona's pre-season preparations. A friendly against Preston North End was previously called off after the team's training camp in the United Kingdom. The club is still expected to proceed with other scheduled matches, including games against Nottingham Forest in Italy and Egyptian side Al Ahly.

Barcelona is preparing for their La Liga title defense, which begins on August 23 against Elche. The team aims for a strong start to the new campaign despite these pre-season setbacks.

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In light of the current uncertainty and circumstances, FC Barcelona considers playing the match would be inappropriate