Members of the Argentine team composed of players of Fujian descent attend a training session. [Photo/China Headlines News Media]

An Argentine soccer team composed of players of Fujian descent departed Buenos Aires on July 13 for Fujian province, where it will take part in friendly matches with teams from the 2026 Fujian Football City League (FJCL).

The team will play against the Xiamen and Putian teams in the FJCL, with matches scheduled for July 19 in Xiamen and July 25 in Putian.

The trip was organized with support from the Argentina Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China. Team leader Ke Lixin, deputy leaders Yan Yu and Cai Guanghai, and Chen Jie, president of the Argentine Chinese Soccer Association, spent more than a month preparing for the event, including player selection, pre-match training, coordination with organizers, travel arrangements, and logistical support.

The exchange focuses on fostering friendship and cultural ties through soccer. For the Argentine players with Fujian roots, the matches offer an opportunity to return to their ancestral home, exchange soccer skills with local teams, and learn about the development of Fujian.

China Eastern Airlines provided support for the team's trip, including a dedicated check-in channel and baggage assistance services to help ensure a smooth departure.