Scaloni confident ahead of Cape Verde clash, criticizes match time

Lionel Scaloni, head coach of the Argentine national football team, conveyed optimism ahead of the match against Cape Verde, highlighting the team's current strong performance while respecting the formidable opponent.

“

We are well, logically excited, like everyone else, but there is an opponent to face, to respect, an opponent who has done things very well.

"We are well, logically excited, like everyone else, but there is an opponent to face, to respect, an opponent who has done things very well," Scaloni stated in a press conference. He acknowledged the high stakes of the game, where the loser is eliminated, but reiterated that the team feels prepared.

Scaloni lauded Cape Verde's tactical prowess and individual talent, noting their undefeated status in the tournament. "They are a team that has not lost. They even deserved to win in some matches," he observed, adding that their progression was not surprising. He also commented on the strong fan support, viewing it as a positive reinforcement rather than pressure.

“

The margin now shrinks. It is a match where the one who loses goes home. And well, we take it into account, but it catches us at a good time.

Addressing potential game scenarios, Scaloni remained cautious about predicting outcomes like extra time or Lionel Messi's specific role, emphasizing that the team's performance depends on the game's flow. He also downplayed concerns about goal distribution, prioritizing collective play. However, he criticized the match's scheduling for a midday kickoff in Miami, citing concerns about the impact of heat and humidity on the game's spectacle.

“

It is a team that has not lost. Even in some matches, they deserved to win.

"If tomorrow it's hot, the spectacle logically won't be the same, but the schedules are what they are, and that's that," Scaloni concluded, looking ahead to the team's next challenge.

“

They have good players. It is a good team, we had already seen it, not because we are facing them now, but because we were analyzing potential opponents. In the end, they advanced, and it doesn't surprise us, honestly.