Three players from Argentina’s women’s national soccer team—goalkeeper Laurina Oliveros, defender Julieta Cruz, and midfielder Lorena Benítez—quit the squad on Monday due to issues related to pay and conditions at a training camp ahead of two friendlies. The players, who are regular starters, voiced their frustrations over being undervalued and mistreated.

Julieta Cruz posted on Instagram, expressing their exhaustion from ongoing injustices and lack of proper support, emphasizing the need for improvements beyond just financial aspects, including better training and nutrition. Both Cruz and Benítez highlighted inadequate provisions during training sessions, such as being given only a ham and cheese sandwich and a banana, which they deemed insufficient for high-performance athletes. Additionally, they were informed by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) that they would not be paid for the friendlies against Costa Rica since the matches are held in Buenos Aires. Benítez also criticized the AFA for charging their family members 5,000 pesos ($5) for match tickets.

Laurina Oliveros expressed her dismay on Instagram, lamenting the deterioration of their dreams and hopes for future generations to enjoy the sport. The AFA has not commented on the players’ departure.

Estefanía Banini, regarded as Argentina’s best female player, supported her former teammates, noting that she had also stopped playing for the national team last year due to similar issues. Banini acknowledged the courage of the three players in speaking out about their grievances.