As the Argentina national team gears up for a crucial Copa America quarterfinal match on July 4th, assistant coach Walter Samuel provided an update on Lionel Messi’s injury status. Messi, who missed the team’s last group-stage game against Peru due to a right hamstring injury, is said to be improving day by day. The coaching staff remains cautiously optimistic about his potential return, with Samuel emphasizing that they are monitoring the situation closely and consulting with the medical team.
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Peru, with Lautaro Martínez stepping up to score both goals. Martínez expressed his hope that Messi would be back for the next game, highlighting the significance of having the star player on the field. Similarly, Ángel Di María shared his optimism about Messi’s recovery, emphasizing that the team is rallying behind their captain and dedicating their victories to him.
Looking ahead to the quarterfinals, Argentina is set to face the runners-up from Group B, which is likely to be either Ecuador or Mexico. Samuel acknowledged the different challenges posed by each potential opponent, noting that Ecuador has technical quality and a capable coach, while Mexico presents a different set of characteristics. Despite the tough competition, the team remains focused on their upcoming match and is determined to maintain their winning momentum.
With four days to go before the quarterfinal clash in Houston, Argentina and Messi are putting in the necessary preparations to ensure a strong performance on the field. The team is expected to travel to Texas on Monday morning, giving them ample time to acclimatize and fine-tune their strategy for the crucial knockout stage fixture. As they await Messi’s full recovery, the entire squad is united in their goal of advancing further in the tournament and clinching the Copa America title.
While Messi’s injury was a setback for Argentina, the team’s resilience and depth have been evident in their recent performances. With the captain’s gradual return to fitness and the collective determination of the players, Argentina remains a formidable force in the Copa America competition. The quarterfinal matchup promises to be a challenging test, but with Messi’s potential comeback and the team’s unwavering spirit, La Albiceleste is poised to make a strong push towards victory.
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