Messi Returns to Argentina Starting Lineup for Copa America QuarterfinalMessi Returns to Argentina Starting Lineup for Copa America Quarterfinal HOUSTON, July 5 — Lionel Messi is set to start for Argentina in their Copa America quarterfinal match against Ecuador after recovering from a hamstring injury. Messi, who was rested in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Peru, will return to the starting lineup for the knockout round match at NRG Stadium. Coach Lionel Scaloni has also made other changes to the lineup, with Lautaro Martinez retaining his place in attack at the expense of Julian Alvarez. The midfield and defense that played in the 1-0 win over Chile will also be used in this match. Messi’s return is a major boost for Argentina, who are looking to win their first Copa America title since 2016. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is in fine form, having scored three goals and provided three assists in the tournament so far. Ecuador will be a tough opponent for Argentina, but Messi will be confident of delivering another impressive performance and helping his team to victory.
HOUSTON, July 5 — Lionel Messi will start for Argentina in their Copa America quarter-final against Ecuador after suffering a hamstring injury.
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Messi was rested for Saturday’s 2-0 win over Peru in Miami as part of nine changes made by coach Lionel Scaloni, but he returns to the starting line-up for the round of 16 at the NRG Stadium.
Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer so far with four goals from three games, retains his place in attack at the expense of Julian Alvarez.
Scaloni has returned to the midfield and defence he used in the line-up against Chile in the penultimate group stage match which the world champions won 1-0. — AFP
