Lionel Messi will not participate in Argentina's final group stage match of the 2024 Copa América against Peru at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida, on Saturday night, sources report. Messi sustained an injury during Tuesday night's game against Chile and received treatment on the sideline in the first half. Despite feeling discomfort in his right hamstring, he continued to play and later confirmed the issue.
On Thursday, the 37-year-old remained at the team hotel and did not join Argentina's training session at Florida International University. Messi explained after the match, "I felt some discomfort in my right hamstring at the beginning of the game. It was tight. It wasn't as loose as it should've been. But I was able to finish the game. We'll see how it goes. In the first play, my adductor got hard. I didn't feel a puncture or a tear, but I did find it difficult to move freely."
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni indicated he plans to make several changes to the lineup against Peru, providing younger players with an opportunity to play. Scaloni stated, "We are satisfied, and we can enjoy the days, and give the youngest ones minutes. I think it's fair to have the players that did not have minutes get onto the pitch."
Players like Exequiel Palacios, Guido Rodríguez, Valentin Carboni, and Alejandro Garnacho, who have yet to feature in the tournament, are expected to see action against Peru. Garnacho, in particular, is likely to be included. Argentina has already secured their spot in the quarterfinals with two victories, making the result of the Peru match inconsequential for their progression.
ADD A COMMENT :