Argentina captain Lionel Messi remains uncertain for Thursday’s Copa America quarter-final against Ecuador at the NRG Stadium in Houston, according to coach Lionel Scaloni.
Messi, who sustained a right hamstring injury in the match against Chile, missed the final group game against Peru. Scaloni also sat out that match due to a one-match suspension by CONMEBOL.
“We will wait a few hours and make a decision. Another day is always better. We’ll decide based on the response we get today,” Scaloni mentioned in a press conference after Messi was spotted training with the team.
“We’ll try to get him to play, and if he doesn’t, we’ll find the best solution for the team. I’ll talk to him today; I think it’s fair that he takes his time and trains as much as possible.”
Argentina, the defending champions, are aiming to win a record 16th Copa America title. They will face Ecuador, a talented team that secured their spot in the quarter-finals by finishing second in Group B after a goalless draw with Mexico.
“Ecuador are a well-drilled side with good players and a good coach. They are one of the best teams in the Copa America. They have a real chance of challenging for the title,” Scaloni noted.
The Argentine coach also emphasized that the tournament has been of top quality and that there are no clear favorites for the crown.
“Anyone can easily reach the final and compete with the best in the world. Yesterday’s game between Colombia and Brazil was of a very high standard. Uruguay are also doing very well, which is not surprising,” he added.