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Lionel Messi is expected to play for Argentina in the Copa America 2024 quarter-final clash against Ecuador on Thursday, July 4. However, his participation is not written in stone as head coach Lionel Scaloni is yet to make a final call on the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Messi missed Argentina's final group-stage game against Peru due to fitness issues. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez started in the attack as La Albiceleste recorded an impressive 2-0 win.
Although Messi participated in group training on Wednesday, July 3, Scaloni hasn't yet decided about the 37-year-old's availability for the Ecuador game. The head coach said in a press conference ahead of the Ecuador game (via Mundo Albiceleste):
"We will wait before deciding on Messi. Yesterday, we had good feelings about Leo. It's an option for Lautaro and Julian to start together if Leo is not there. We will wait for today's training to discuss."
"It changes things if Leo 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," Scaloni added.
As per Mundo Albiceleste, Lionel Messi is rumored to start against Ecuador. However, there could be a change on the attacking front as Martinez is reported to replace Alvarez in the first XI.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is yet to score at Copa America 2024
Lionel Messi is yet to find the back of the net at Copa America 2024. He failed to get on the scoresheet in the opening two games against Canada and Chile before missing the match against Peru.
Messi, though, bagged an assist against Canada. Despite not scoring, the Argentina captain remains the team's creative talisman. He produced a few moments of magic in the first two matches.
Lionel Scaloni also missed the game against Peru due to suspension. But he will be back on the sidelines for the quarter-final showdown against Ecuador.
Argentina boast a perfect record at the continental tournament so far, winning all three of their Group A games. Ecuador, meanwhile, finished second in Group B with four points from three matches.
Lionel Messi's potential participation could be a huge factor in the Copa America 2024 quarter-final clash. While the Barcelona legend has struggled with fitness recently, his contributions remain integral to Argentina's success.
