CONFRONT E cuador or M exico
After 2 wins in Group A, Argentina soon has a ticket to the quarterfinals and only needs 1 more point against Peru to ensure top spot in the group. Coach Scaloni determined to change most of the squad in this match but still set the ultimate goal of victory. Theoretically, no matter who plays, Argentina is still expected to earn 3 points quite easily because they are superior in class compared to their opponents.
Messi (middle) will rest, avoiding even the smallest risks.
AFA
The remaining members of the Argentine team such as reserve goalkeeper Rulli, defender Pezzella, midfielders Palacios, Carboni or young star Garnacho are all highly appreciated. Not to mention, striker Lautaro Martinez (scored 2 goals in 2 matches when coming from the bench) is also likely to start on June 30. If Argentina tops Group A, in the quarterfinals, it will meet the team ranked second in Group B. If it finishes second, it will meet the team ranked top in Group B.
In Group B, Venezuela (6 points, already qualified for the quarterfinals) only needs to tie with Jamaica (eliminated) in the final round (7:00, July 1) to be sure of first place. The remaining slot is a duel between Ecuador and Mexico (both have 3 points). The Ecuadorian team has the advantage thanks to the difference of +1 compared to the opponent’s 0, so they only need a draw to advance.
Both Ecuador and Mexico are familiar opponents of the Argentine team. Messi and his teammates have been unbeaten in their last 7 matches against Ecuador (6 wins, 1 draw). Meanwhile, Mexico has lost 4 consecutive matches against Argentina recently.
M essi was ‘lifted like an egg’
According to journalist Gaston Edul of TyC Sports channel, after the Argentina team arrived in Florida to prepare for the match against Peru at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Messi was examined for a thigh injury (he was injured in the win over Chile). 1-0 on June 26). Although there is nothing really to worry about, this 37-year-old player was still allowed to rest by Coach Scaloni and returned home with his family in Miami City (USA). He only returned to training one day before Argentina’s match against Peru but will not play.
Messi has been given complete rest to be in the best physical condition to prepare for the quarter-finals. For over a year, whenever he has suffered an injury, no matter how minor, Messi has had to rest for at least a week or more to recover 100% before returning to the field. Coach Scaloni understands this better than anyone, so he does not let Messi take any risks, no matter how small.
