Argentina’s Friendly Tour in America Almost Derailed as Lionel Messi’s Side’s High Demands Led to a Missed Opportunity of Facing Spain

Argentina’s soccer team is currently having one of the best phases ever. Losing has become a rarity, and the team is in high demand after winning the 2022 World Cup. But it is hard to believe that the same demand can spoil profitable opportunities. After being rejected in China to play two international friendlies, reports now suggest that Lionel Messi’s team also missed a chance to play Spain, leading the team to land in the USA to fill in the international break.

With Copa America arriving, the Albiceleste would have liked to play against the best teams on paper. And a win against a European giant like Spain would have boosted their morale. However, the World Champions are not ready to compromise on money. According to reports, the Spanish national team opted out of a potential friendly clash against Lionel Messi due to the exorbitant amount of money demanded by AFA (Argentine Football Association). Therefore, the 2010 World Cup winners chose the 5-time World Champions, Brazil.

Meanwhile, Argentina headed to the USA to play two friendlies against slightly lower-ranked opponents El Salvador and Costa Rica, winning comfortably. However, looking at the history between Spain and Argentina in soccer, their fixture could have been quite interesting. Both the teams have earlier met 14 times and astonishingly won 6 each while drawing the other two games.

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Additionally, the current World Champions could have eyed revenge for the 6-1 loss during their previous encounter. Nevertheless, Brazil, being a formidable team, provided a challenging contest for Spain. Real Madrid’s new 17-year-old sensation Endrick stole the show, scoring a goal, and faced Spain’s Lamine Yamal, who displayed exquisite skills. Meanwhile, Argentina went into the friendlies without Lionel Messi due to a hamstring injury.

Is injury to Lionel Messi a major concern for his teams?

Even though Argentina has a few months to prepare for Copa America, they remain unfazed after their captain’s injury. Angel Di Maria stated it would be better for Lionel Messi to sit out now rather than miss the continental tournament in June. Moreover, Lionel Scaloni also mentioned his participation in the 2024 Copa America.

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However, that is not the case with Inter Miami. The Herons would need the 8-time Ballon d’Or every time. Last year, David Beckham’s team could win just one MLS match before losing out on a playoff spot after the 36-year-old was ruled out due to injury. This time, the club suffered a humiliating 4-0 loss against the New York Red Bulls, with Lionel Messi expected to miss the game against NY City too. Overall, with recurrent issues due to bruises, it looks like the teams should be ready to cope without the former Barcelona star.