Argentina’s hopes of defending their World Cup title have been put back a notch with their planned trip from Atlanta delayed following storms that hit the area.
Lionel Scaloni’s team had intended to take a flight from Atlanta to New York after their last-gasp 2-1 semi-final win over England, but the storms caused significant disruption at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and left the players and delegation with an unexpected layover.
It could mean that Argentina is limited in the time they have to train ahead of their Sunday final against Spain, which takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The journey from Atlanta to New York is typically around just two hours, and the players could be forced to wait until the following day to take off.
Argentina reached the final with a spectacular comeback against England. Anthony Gordon gave England the lead before Enzo Fernandez pulled Argentina level late in the match. And Lautaro Martinez scored a deep-headed winner to make it second time lucky for the Albiceleste following a cross from Lionel Messi in added time, and the reigning champions booked their place in the final.
Spain, on the other hand, arrived in New Jersey a day before Argentina had defeated France 2-0 to progress and had already been preparing for Sunday’s final.
Argentina will be looking for the travel hiccup not to have too much of a negative effect.
