With Javier Mascherano Eager to Include Him, Lionel Messi Reacts to Argentina Knocking Brazil Out of Paris Olympics

Last night, Argentina U23 made strides by qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The Albicelestes clinched a narrow victory against Brazil U23 in the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament held in Venezuela. While Argentinian fans around the world continue to mark the occasion, national team captain Lionel Messi, who is being eyed by Javier Mascherano to play in the summer games, also added his voice to the roar of excitement.

Argentina U23 were able to defend their 2020 title. La Pulga was also impressed by his nation’s youngsters, as he couldn’t contain his excitement over their achievement. The 36-year-old took to Instagram and shared a post of the final score posted by Selección Argentina on his story. He also wrote a caption, saying, “VAMOOOSSS!!!” along with four hand-clapping and one Argentina flag emoji. La Albiceleste hero, who led his side to 2022 World Cup glory, seems to be impressed by his country’s U23 stars. 

Notably, Thiago Almada finished as the top scorer of the tournament, alongside Uruguay’s Luciano Rodríguez with 5 goals each. Interestingly, Argentina was seeded in Group B alongside Uruguay, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru. Throughout the tournament, they didn’t lose a single game, winning and drawing two matches and finishing the group at the top with 8 points. Paraguay also managed to qualify for the four-team group stage. Brazil (9 points) and Venezuela (8 points) joined the winners of Group B by progressing from Group A, consisting of Ecuador, Bolivia, and Colombia. 

Since only two teams can qualify for the Olympics, between the final four teams, Argentina (5 points) and Paraguay (4 points) booked their seats in Paris, with Brazil (3 points) and host Venezuela (1 point) being eliminated. Certainly, Argentina will look to win in Paris, but can Messi also make his way into the team? 

Javier Mascherano wants to invite Lionel Messi to play in the 2024 Olympics

Argentina U23 coach Javier Mascherano is ready to invite both Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria to the Paris Olympics. He said, “I have an amazing relationship with Leo and Angel. We are friends. As a coach, I have an obligation to invite them but one understands that they have other obligations and it will depend on them. It’s not that simple.”

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Mascherano is aware that both players are obligated to play for their domestic sides. Also before the Olympics, which will run from July 26 to August 11, there is the impending Copa America, which will keep both Messi and Di Maria busy from June 20 to July 14. Hence, it remains to be seen if we see the duo in the summer games. 

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