The Argentine national team was actually looking forward to a Copa America at home. Wanted in their own country the Albiceleste the lean period of 28 years without a title in the continental championship finally quit.
But due to the pandemic, the tournament could not take place in Argentina. Now, as in 2019, the arch-rivals Brazil will be played, although the country of the five-time world champion is not doing much better in terms of health.
When the South American Championship took place in Brazil, the Argentines never got more than third place. This was also the case with the last issue two years ago.
What the selection can do is still unclear. In qualifying for the 2022 World Cup, you are clearly on course to participate in the finals. Most recently, the team of national coach Lionel Scaloni did not get past two draws against Chile (1: 1) and Colombia (2: 2).
Above all, the away draw against the Colombians was bitter. Here the guests led 2-0 early on. In the fourth minute of stoppage time, Miguel Borja was able to equalize for the home side to the final score.
This means that they are clearly behind the leaders of Brazil. The coach can count on stars like Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero (both Barca) and Angel Di Maria (PSG) in the Copa America.
From the Bundesliga, Exequiel Palacios, Lucas Alario (both Leverkusen) and Nicolas Gonzalez (VfB Stuttgart) are in the squad. Cristian Romero (Atalanta) is still in doubt for the game against Chile.
Basically, the South American Championship is the dress rehearsal for the 2022 World Cup. At the finals in Qatar, superstar Lionel Messi may have the last chance to win a big title with the national team.
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