Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, is confirmed to be fit for the Copa America semi-final against Canada in New Jersey, according to coach Lionel Scaloni. Despite recent concerns over a hamstring injury, Messi will be part of the crucial match on Tuesday.
Quarter-Final Comeback
Messi made a return to the pitch on Thursday during Argentina’s quarter-final victory over Ecuador. Having missed the final group-stage match due to injury, he played the entire quarter-final game, although he appeared physically limited. The 37-year-old Inter Miami star missed a penalty in the shootout at Houston’s NRG Stadium, which decided the game.
Scaloni’s Confidence in Messi
Coach Lionel Scaloni expressed confidence in Messi’s fitness and readiness. “Leo (Messi) is fine, he finished well, so tomorrow he will be part of the match, we are calm,” Scaloni stated in a press conference on Monday before the semi-final clash at the MetLife Stadium. “His level looks good. He is essential for us.”
Rematch with Canada
Argentina and Canada will face each other for the second time in the tournament. In their opening Group A match, the defending champions Argentina defeated the CONCACAF side 2-0. This time, both Scaloni and Canada’s coach Jesse Marsch aim to employ different strategies.
Tactical Adjustments
“All coaches take notes to correct mistakes and hurt our opponents,” said Scaloni. “Each coach will have to do something different. We will try to have the ball and stop them from playing their game.” Scaloni emphasized that Argentina will focus on countering Canada’s physical and aggressive style of play.
Facing Canada’s Strengths
Canada, fresh off a penalty shootout win over Venezuela, poses a significant challenge with their physically strong and technically skilled players. Scaloni acknowledged this, saying, “Canada has players who are physically strong and also technically good, with a coach who has conveyed an aggressive way of playing. They have made things difficult for all teams. Physically it’s difficult to match them, but with our assets we hope to play the game on our side.”
Argentina is prepared to adapt and overcome, leveraging their strengths and Messi’s indispensable presence to secure a place in the Copa America final.
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