Lionel Messi will sit out Argentina’s battle against Peru in the Copa America due to injury, and the squad will also lack presence from their coach Lionel Scaloni on the sidelines, courtesy of a ban.
Having clinched a quarter-finals berth through stellar performances against Canada and Chile, Argentina needs only a draw against Peru to finish atop Group A. This scenario opens the door for some strategic player rotations.
Messi, the team’s captain, will be notably absent after sustaining a groin injury, as confirmed by Argentina’s assistant coach Walter Samuel in a media address. “Leo encountered a groin issue last time and won’t feature in the upcoming game,” Samuel explained, indicating they would monitor his recovery day by day.
The absence of Scaloni comes as a result of punitive measures from CONMEBOL due to the team’s tardiness returning post-halftime in recent matches. This led to a fine and Scaloni’s suspension, following a prior warning.
“Receiving this news today was unexpected,” remarked Samuel. “Lionel is quite disappointed; he wished to accompany the team. Nevertheless, we’ll respect CONMEBOL’s decision.”
Samuel downplayed the notion of Argentina being the top pick to win, focusing instead on the immediate challenges. “Claiming the cup will be tough with several formidable teams in play,” he stated. “We don’t entertain thoughts of being the favorites; our approach is one game at a time, focusing now on Peru and taking each match as if it’s a final.”
