Scaloni Slams FIFA's World Cup Schedule After Grueling Win

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni expressed frustration with the 2022 World Cup schedule, particularly the lack of rest days for teams in the tournament's later stages. This came after a grueling 3-2 extra-time victory against Cape Verde, which marked Scaloni's 100th match in charge.

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When you need rest the most, you have the least. It's very difficult to understand, it should have been gradual. But well, what can you do?

Scaloni highlighted the disparity in rest periods, noting that after six days off, the team now has only three and a half days before their next match against Egypt. A canceled training session in Miami due to a storm further reduced their preparation time. "When you need rest the most, you have the least. It's very difficult to understand," Scaloni stated.

The demanding match against Cape Verde, which pushed Argentina to the brink of elimination, also led to physical problems for several players. Facundo Medina left the game with severe cramps, Enzo Fernández experienced issues late in the match, and Nico González suffered an ankle injury during extra time. Scaloni explained that limited substitutions exacerbated the situation on the field.

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Enzo felt a small cramp towards the end, but he recovered. He finished the match with cramps again, but we had no more substitutions left.

Despite these challenges, Argentina is preparing to face Egypt in the round of 16. Egypt, having gained confidence from their own victory, is considered a tactically prepared opponent for a fatigued Argentine side. The match is scheduled for Tuesday.

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We are happy with Facundo. He was very tired because we used him a lot in attack, which he is not used to. He played as a third center-back, without many offensive tasks. He finished with cramps, but he's fine. Fortunately, we have Nico Tagliafico on the bench who gives us the necessary security and showed he is also ready.