Argentina is set to play a friendly against Venezuela on Friday, October 10, in Miami. Recently, Lionel Messi and his teammates learned of a schedule change for their second friendly, which was originally planned against Puerto Rico.
The match, initially scheduled for Monday, October 13, in Chicago, has been moved to Tuesday, October 14, and will now be held in Miami.
Argentine journalist Gaston Edul reported that the game against Puerto Rico will take place at Chase Stadium, home of Inter Miami, although the kickoff time has yet to be confirmed.
This change means Argentina will play both friendlies in Miami, avoiding extra travel across the US. The team has been training in South Florida, where the Argentine Football Association is constructing a new training facility.
Messi’s Participation Uncertain
For the first match against Venezuela, coach Lionel Scaloni is likely to use most of his regular starters. The only uncertainty is Lionel Messi, who may not be fully fit after playing the full 90 minutes in seven consecutive matches for Inter Miami in the last 21 days. If he can’t play, Franco Mastantuono or Nico Paz may take his place.
In a press conference, Scaloni mentioned the need to assess Messi’s condition, stressing the importance of not taking risks. “We’re going to talk with him and everyone,” he said. “The idea is not to risk anyone. These are friendlies, and while the national team is important, anyone with even a minor issue won’t be risked. But if they’re fit, they’ll play.”
As for the second match against Puerto Rico, Scaloni is expected to give playing time to those on the team who haven’t featured much in recent call-ups.
Palmeiras striker Jose Manuel Lopez might debut for Argentina, along with goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses (Racing Club), defender Lautaro Rivero (River Plate), and midfielder Anibal Moreno (Palmeiras).