Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has stated that the upcoming World Cup semi-final match against England is “just a football game.” His comments followed Argentina’s 3-1 victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals, a match that saw the defending champions secure their spot in the next stage.
The quarter-final encounter in Kansas City saw Alexis Mac Allister give Argentina an early lead. However, Dan Ndoye scored an equaliser for Switzerland midway through the second half. The game took a turn when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation, reducing Switzerland to ten men. Julian Alvarez then broke the deadlock in the 112th minute, and substitute Lautaro Martinez added a third goal late in the game.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals included tough tests, with previous 3-2 victories against Cape Verde and Egypt. Scaloni acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that the team’s ambition was key to their win against Switzerland, rather than solely the quality of play. He expressed satisfaction with reaching the semi-finals, describing it as a privileged position, and affirmed the team’s commitment to giving their all.
Messi’s enduring form and impact
Coach Scaloni also addressed the performance of captain Lionel Messi, dismissing any surprise regarding his physical condition at 39 years old. Scaloni reiterated his belief that Messi will remain the best player in the world for as long as he chooses to continue playing. Messi has been a pivotal figure in Argentina’s World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals in five matches.
Messi’s contributions include inspiring a 3-2 comeback victory against Egypt in the round of 16, where he scored once and assisted Cristian Romero after Argentina had trailed by two goals. He is now the leading scorer in World Cup history, with 21 goals across his career. Despite missing two penalties in the tournament, Scaloni has expressed full confidence in Messi’s decision-making regarding spot-kicks, stating he would not intervene.
Scaloni noted that Messi’s consistent physical output in matches is a result of preparation work with his fitness coach. He highlighted Messi’s ability to create danger when he is fully committed, describing him as a “machine.” The coach believes that those who expected Messi’s age to affect his performance do not fully understand the player’s capabilities.
Historical context of the semi-final
The upcoming semi-final in Atlanta against England carries historical significance. Matches between England and Argentina have a history marked by notable incidents on the pitch, set against a backdrop of a sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, also known as the Malvinas.
Scaloni, however, sought to downplay any political undertones, emphasising that the match is purely a football game. He acknowledged England as a very tough opponent with an excellent coach. The semi-final will take place 40 years after a memorable quarter-final encounter in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, where Argentina secured a 2-1 victory with two goals from Diego Maradona, including the famous “Hand of God” goal.
Since then, the two teams have met twice more in World Cups. Argentina won on penalties in 1998, while England secured a victory four years later. Scaloni’s focus remains on the sporting aspect of the match, preparing his team for the challenge ahead.
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Source: newindianexpress.com
Priya Nair
Sports Reporter
