Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised Lionel Messi’s performance. He said that Messi is physically fit, but his commitment on the pitch makes the biggest difference. Scaloni said that when Messi gives his all he becomes a ‘machine’.
texas [अमेरिका]July 11 (ANI): Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised football icon Lionel Messi’s consistency, saying his performance remains at a high level in every match. He said that although Messi has improved his physical condition by working with his fitness coach, the biggest difference is his commitment on the pitch. Scaloni also stressed that when Messi gives his all and feels he has a chance to make an impact, he becomes “a machine”.
Messi is a ‘machine’
According to Reuters, Scaloni said, “Leo runs more or less the same way in every match. Physically, it is true that he has done preparation work with his fitness coach and it has paid off, but in terms of statistics, I don’t know that he has changed that much.”
The coach added, “It doesn’t surprise me. It’s clear that he is giving his all. When he gives his all and he feels he can create a threat, he is a machine.”
Rejected questions arising on age
Scaloni dismissed the doubts being raised about Messi’s age and said that people who do not know him may be surprised to see his level at the age of 39. He insisted that as long as Messi continues to play, he will remain the best in the world. He stressed that his opinion was based on Messi’s ability rather than his role as a coach. He said, “Maybe people who don’t know him expected that at 39 he wouldn’t be at this level, but I don’t know how many times I’ve said this: He’ll be the best as long as he wants to. I think so, and not because I’m his coach.”
Switzerland strong rival
Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Kansas City. Scaloni praised the Swiss team, which reached the quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years by beating Colombia on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
“No opponent is easy, we all know that,” Scaloni said. He concluded, “They are a very good team. They compete with the best national teams and always perform well. They may win or lose, but they always compete. They have World Cup tradition, experienced players and they are physically strong.” (ANI)
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