Argentina Coach Scaloni Warns of Swiss Strength Ahead of World Cup Quarter-Final

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged Switzerland as a formidable opponent ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash, urging his team not to underestimate them. "There are no easy opponents, we all know that. For me, Switzerland is an exceptional team," Scaloni stated during a press conference.

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There are no easy opponents, we all know that. For me, Switzerland is an exceptional team.

Scaloni, who has transformed the Argentine squad into a "winning machine" since taking over in 2018, leading them to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 World Cup, wants his team to be remembered for their passion and resilience. "This is the legacy we want to leave behind," he said, referring to a team that "never gave up."

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This is the legacy we want to leave behind.

Despite concerns about Lionel Messi's age (39), Scaloni assured that the captain is in excellent physical condition, supported by his personal trainer and performing at his usual level. "He is in good physical shape, he has his physical trainer, everything is as always. He is always ready, and the team strongly supports him," Scaloni noted, adding that Messi "wants to remain the best" until the end of his career.

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He is in good physical shape, he has his physical trainer, everything is as always. He is always ready, and the team strongly supports him.

Switzerland, on the other hand, will be missing their top scorer, Johan Manzambi, who has netted three goals and provided two assists in the tournament but is sidelined with a knee injury. Captain Granit Xhaka dismissed suggestions that the Swiss team is overly focused on Messi, emphasizing their goal is to surprise Argentina. "I tell the fans: keep dreaming. I am a person who always dreams, and dreams can come true," Xhaka urged, as Switzerland aims to reach the semi-finals for the first time in 72 years.

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I tell the fans: keep dreaming. I am a person who always dreams, and dreams can come true.