Lionel Messi: Scaloni Provides Update on Argentina Captain Ahead of Ecuador Clash

• Lionel Messi missed Argentina’s final Copa America Group A game against Peru due to an injury suffered against Chile
• The defending champions won 2-0 in their captain’s absence thanks to two goals from Inter Milan striker, Lautaro Martinez
• Coach Lionel Scaloni is optimistic the Inter Miami superstar will be available against Ecuador but will make a late decision

Argentina are optimistic that captain, Lionel Messi, will be fit to start their 2024 Copa America quarter-final tie against Ecuador but faces a late fitness decision.

Messi played 90 minutes against Chile despite suffering muscle cramps in the first half. His corner kick in the second half led to Lautaro Martinez's goal.

He was deservedly rested for the final group game against Peru, and in his absence, the world champions won 2-0 thanks to two goals from Inter Milan forward, Martinez.

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Scaloni optimistic Messi will start vs Ecuador

La Albiceleste boss, Lionel Scaloni, who also missed the match against Peru due to suspension, provided a fitness update on the captain during his pre-match conference.

"We will wait before deciding on Messi. Yesterday, we had good feelings about Leo. It’s an option for Lautaro and Julián to start together if Leo is not there. We will wait for today’s training to discuss," he said via Mundo Albiceleste.

"It changes things if Leo (Messi) doesn’t play. We’ll try to have him. It’s fair to wait until the last moment and let him take his time. Before training, I will talk with him to decide what we will do tomorrow. To pick the team, we will wait to see how he is, as we had good feelings yesterday."

Multiple reports, as quoted by AlbicelesteTalk, indicate that Messi feels fully recovered and has informed Scaloni of his intention to start the game, even though it's not his decision.

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2024 Copa America MVP contenders

Sports Brief analysed the early contenders for Copa America MVP as the competition reached the knockout stages. Defending champions, Argentina, became the first to qualify.

Messi was named the best player in the last edition after scoring the most goals and assists, capped off by his first international trophy for his country after several close calls.