After a successful group stage, the Argentine team qualified for the final phase without any problems. Indeed, with three wins in three games, the Albiceleste had a flawless performance. Nicolas Tagliafico’s teammates managed to get the better of Canada (2-0), Chile (1-0), and most recently, Peru (2-0).
With five goals scored and none conceded, Lionel Scaloni’s players confirmed their status as favorites. In the quarter-finals, the reigning world champions will face Ecuador at three o’clock in the morning this Friday. La Tri finished second in their group, behind Venezuela and just ahead of Mexico.
Nicolas Tagliafico, the left-back from Olympique Lyonnais (OL), is expected to continue his role in the team. Initially left on the bench during the first match, Tagliafico was then started twice. On July 5, the Argentine international hopes to retain his place in the coach’s starting eleven. Moreover, during the last match against Peru, the defender played the entire match, showcasing his physical fitness and solid performance. It remains to be seen whether his coach will trust him once again in this knockout match.
However, Argentina’s biggest concern at the moment is Lionel Messi. The captain of the 2022 world champions is still uncertain for the quarter-finals, which is troubling news for the top team in the FIFA rankings. Messi’s potential absence could significantly impact the dynamics and morale of the team. Nonetheless, Argentina remains a formidable opponent, with a strong defense and capable players ready to step up.
As the match approaches, fans eagerly await to see if Tagliafico will be in the starting lineup and if Messi will be fit to play. The outcome of this quarter-final will determine whether Argentina continues its journey towards another Copa America title.