Lionel Scaloni confirms Messi to start, praises Angola’s style of play | OneFootball

The Argentinian national football team arrived in Angola this Thursday, where they will play the last friendly match of the year against the local team, in a historic event for the African country. In this regard, Lionel Scaloni spoke at a press conference today and confirmed the presence of Lionel Messi.

What Scaloni said about the match with Angola

“Messi will play initially, I don't know how many minutes, we'll see; people will be able to see him,” explained the national team's coach to the media.

Regarding the unexpected absences in the squad list, the coach reiterated: “We replaced the absences with young players we were following and who could have the opportunity. It helps us to see them and confirm what we thought, that they can contribute to us.”

“I have decided on the team, it will be a team of complete trust, that has played a lot together. Many world champions will be on the field, and people will be able to enjoy it,” Scaloni detailed.

As for the opponent and the significance of the match, the coach said that “every match with the national team is important.” “We will play a match against a team that hasn't qualified (for the World Cup) but has done good things, a great last match against Cameroon. They have good players. We hope the public enjoys it, we are facing an important match for Angola on the anniversary of their independence.”

“We like that the guys want to be here, this is a long trip. I know the Angolan players, they have acquaintances in European leagues and individually they are good; if they function as a team, they can pose challenges,” Scaloni elaborated further.

Additionally, the coach explained that for several of the called-up players, it is an opportunity to gain visibility. “Many of our players are playing for us to see them and be on the World Cup list. There is nothing to give away, we will try to play a good match.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.