Argentina Sets A Record With Scaloni After Tekuk Ecuador In The Trial Match

Argentina looks slick under Lionel Scaloni (Instagram/@aphaselecion).

JAKARTA - The Argentine national team held a trial against Ecuador on June 10, 2024 in Chicago, United States, in preparation for the 2024 Copa America.

Lionel Scaloni's men narrowly won 1-0 thanks to Angel Di Maria's goal in the 40th minute.

The win turned out to have other meanings regardless of the fact that Team Tango was ready to appear in the 2024 Copa America.

Especially for Scaloni, he means he has scored his 48th win from 70 matches during his Argentina menukangi.

On June 15, 2024, Scaloni will near 50 wins as La Albiceleste faces Guatemala in their last test ahead of the Copa America.

The series of positive results are proof that Scaloni can answer the challenges imposed on him. In those 48 victories, Argentina has won the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, and 2022 World Cup.

As a result, he is La Albiceleste's most successful coach at this time. The slick 46-year-old architect will be tested again at the 2024 Copa America.

However, Scaloni emphasized that the positive record was the hard work of the players. He also believes that Argentina can defend its title in the 2024 Copa America looking at the mentality of the existing squad.

"I think it was a good game for us and for Ecuador. It was intense for a friendly game."

"We did what we had to do, try to dominate and control the ball," said Scaloni.

"It's only a few days left to make a list of the finals. We'll do it based on what we believe is best for selection."

"These people have an engagement in every game. This team shows that they are always competing in any situation," Scaloni said again.

Scaloni is equipped with many quality players to welcome the 2024 Copa America. One of them is goalkeeper Dibu Martinez.

The 31-year-old goalkeeper has won his 28th clean sheet in 38 matches with La Albiceleste.

Then, Lionel Messi is still trusted to be in the team. He can present more motivational injections for his colleagues.

Scaloni did not rule out the superstar and is congregating a suitable team to still present Messi on the pitch.

No wonder, Lionel Messi still gets minutes to play during the test match against Ecuador even as a substitute.

"There are times when there is no need to take risks, not just with Leo. The goal is to pay a little attention to everyone and make sure they arrive (at the 2024 Copa America) in optimal condition," said Scaloni.