South American qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup to resume in June

South American qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, suspended in March after European clubs refused to release their players, will resume on the dates scheduled in June before the start of the Copa America (June 13-July 10), announced on Friday. the South American Confederation (Conmebol). The 5th and 6th days, scheduled for March 25, 26 and 30, had been postponed indefinitely by the South American Confederation due to the refusal of European clubs, worried about a risk of quarantine, to release their South American stars.

Blocks of three matches instead of two in the fall to make up for lost time

These two days, which notably include the Brazil-Argentina Classic, are rescheduled in September, October or November, with the Conmebol planning to organize blocks of three matches, instead of the current two. The South American sports body « Asked FIFA three more days to ensure adequate recovery of the players », is it specified in the press release. La Conmebol intends to make up for the delay and also hopes « Minimize the wear and tear of travel during a pandemic and avoid complications in the busy schedule facing South American football this year », is it added.

Gianni Infantino assures Conmebol of its support

FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the Conmebol decision-making meeting and declared that these qualifications « Are extremely important » for the governing body of world football. He agreed that for the sake of fairness, South American teams must have access to all their players and urged FIFA to make the necessary changes to the international calendar.

The 7th and 8th World Cup qualifying days will be played on June 3 and 8, before the opening of the Copa America in Argentina and Colombia on June 13. After 4 days, Brazil (12 points) is in the lead ahead of Argentina (10).