- Lionel Messi will play in the semi-final against Canada despite injury worries.
- Messi played through discomfort in Argentina’s quarter-final win against Ecuador.
- Coach Scaloni plans strategic adjustments for the match against Canada.
Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, will play in the Copa America semi-final against Canada, despite concerns about a hamstring injury. Coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Messi’s fitness during a press conference, stating that the star forward looked good and was essential for the team. Messi returned to action in the quarter-final win against Ecuador after missing the final group-stage match due to injury, playing the entire game despite appearing physically hampered.
In the quarter-final match at Houston’s NRG Stadium, the 37-year-old Inter Miami player missed a penalty in the shootout that ultimately decided the game. However, Scaloni assured that Messi finished the match well and is ready for the semi-final at MetLife Stadium.
Argentina and Canada will face off for the second time in the tournament, having previously met in the opening match of Group A, where Argentina emerged victorious with a 2-0 win. Scaloni indicated that both he and Canada’s coach, Jesse Marsch, will implement new strategies for this crucial game, aiming to correct previous mistakes and gain an edge.
Scaloni acknowledged the physical and aggressive playstyle of the Canadian team, who recently won their quarter-final match against Venezuela in a penalty shootout. He emphasized the need for Argentina to use their strengths to counter Canada’s physicality and technical skill, aiming to control the game and secure a spot in the final.