Lionel Messi will sit out Argentina’s final Group A match of the 2024 Copa América against Peru at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday night.
According to ESPN, the decision aims to grant their captain essential rest.
Messi sustained an injury during Tuesday night’s 1-0 victory over Chile, receiving treatment on the sidelines in the first half. Post-match, he acknowledged feeling discomfort in his right hamstring but managed to finish the game.
“On Thursday afternoon, the 37-year-old star remained at the team hotel, opting out of Argentina’s training session at Florida International University.”
“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,” Messi said in a mixed-zone interview after the match.
“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.”
Following the Chile game, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni indicated plans to rotate the starting lineup against Peru, offering younger players a chance to feature.
“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.”
Exequiel Palacios, Guido Rodríguez, Valentin Carboni, and Alejandro Garnacho have yet to play in the tournament despite participating in pre-Copa America friendlies against Guatemala and Ecuador. Sources suggest Garnacho is among those likely to play against Peru.
Argentina’s qualification for the knockout round is secure following their win against Chile, securing La Albiceleste’s place in the quarterfinals with two wins from two matches. As reigning champions, they are almost assured of topping Group A.
