Lionel Messi’s participation in the upcoming friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela in Miami has been the subject of much anticipation. Scheduled for Friday, October 10, this friendly will take place at Hard Rock Stadium.
Argentina vs. Venezuela: Match Details
- Date: Friday, October 10
- Time: 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. in Argentina and Venezuela)
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
- Broadcast: Available on beIN SPORTS
Messi’s Status for the Match
Despite the significance of the match, Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed concerns about player safety. In a recent press conference, Scaloni stated, “We’ll make a final decision today.” His comments followed a training session on Thursday, October 9.
Scaloni acknowledged that, while these matches are important for team cohesion and practice, risking key players in a friendly is not advisable. Messi has been notably active, participating in seven matches over the past three weeks.
Implications for Inter Miami
Interestingly, Messi’s non-participation in the friendly against Venezuela raises questions about his availability for upcoming MLS fixtures. Inter Miami, Messi’s club, is set to face Atlanta United the following day, on Saturday, October 11, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Chase Stadium.
Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami’s coach, mentioned he had not communicated with Messi regarding his status for the match against Atlanta. However, he expressed hope, saying, “If he doesn’t play (with Argentina) and there’s a chance, I’d be delighted.”
Inter Miami’s Upcoming Schedule
- Next Match: Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United
- Date: Saturday, October 11, 2023
- Location: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Final Regular Season Match: Against Nashville SC on October 18
As the MLS playoffs approach, Inter Miami is currently positioned third in the Eastern Conference standings. The team needs strong performances in their upcoming games to secure home-field advantage for the playoffs, which begin on October 22.
