In recent days, the topic that has been on the minds of the soccer world is Lionel Messi’s participation in the match against Algeria. There was some uncertainty surrounding this issue, but Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, has clarified the situation.

“Leo will be on the bench tomorrow and will play later. We’ll announce the starting lineup tomorrow,” he said at Friday’s press conference ahead of the match at AT&T Stadium.

The Albiceleste has already secured its spot in the round of 32 as the top team in Group 10, following victories over Algeria and Austria. The 2022 world champions will face Cape Verde next Friday in Miami; Cape Verde finished second in Group H.

Messi is the team’s only scorer in the tournament so far, having scored five goals in the first two games, breaking the record for most goals in the history of the Men’s World Cup, bringing his total to 18. He scored a hat trick against Algeria and added two more goals against Austria.

The Inter Miami star is also leading the race for the Golden Boot.

Emiliano Martínez may be the only starter to retain his spot in a lineup featuring several new faces. Nico Paz, who made his World Cup debut when he came on as a substitute for Messi toward the end of the opening match against Algeria, is expected to start in his place.

“We hope the team will play the same way. That’s exactly what we’ll try to achieve,” Scaloni said.

*photo source: AP