Messi fit for Copa America semi-final against Canada, confirms coach Scaloni
NEW JERSEY: Argentina captain Lionel Messi will be fit to play in Tuesday’s Copa America semi-final against Canada in New Jersey, despite concerns over his hamstring injury, coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed.
Messi returned to action on Thursday during Argentina’s quarter-final victory over Ecuador, after missing the final group-stage match due to his injury. Although he played the entire game, the 37-year-old forward appeared physically hampered. Notably, he missed a penalty in the shootout that ultimately decided the match at Houston’s NRG Stadium.
“Leo (Messi) is fine, he finished well, so tomorrow he will be part of the match, we are calm,” Scaloni stated during a press conference on Monday, ahead of the semi-final clash at MetLife Stadium. “His level looks good. He is essential for us.”
Argentina and Canada are set to meet for the second time in this tournament. In their opening match in Group A, the defending champions secured a 2-0 victory over the CONCACAF side. Messi’s presence in the upcoming semi-final is expected to be a crucial boost for Argentina as they continue their quest to retain the Copa America title.
