Lionel Messi to star in United States vs. Argentina - International Friendly Preview
A sell-out crowd at New Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey will witness United States host South American giants, Argentina, in an international friendly. The fixture might be a friendly on paper, but it will demonstrate just how far the two sides have come in terms of teamwork over the past few months.
Gold Cup preparations for the US
Last time these two sides met was in 2008. The venue was the same, and it turned out to be a feisty yet ill-tempered clash. The game ended in a stalemate as the US goalkeeper, Tim Howard, kept the score line at 0-0 with a heroic shift.
The Stars and Stripes host Paraguay on Tuesday, just three days after this fixture, and it will present Bob Bradley with an opportunity to examine the condition of his squad ahead of the Gold Cup. Bolton star Stuart Holden, Zak Whitebread and Steve Cherundolo were all called for international duty but the trio is out injured. Stuart Holden’s absence would be sorely felt as the youngster was a guaranteed starter. However, USA still has a lot of depth in the midfield with Jermaine Jones, Michael Bradley and Maurice Edu likely to start. Sacha Kljestan and Mikkel Diskerud will also get some time off the bench.
The attacking front, on the other hand, has limited options with Jozy Altidore, Juan Agudelo and Edson Buddle being the only call-ups. Altidore will get the nod while 18-year-old Agudelo, who has been winning praise of late, will also be given a chance to showcase his talent. The Red Bulls striker has been an impact player in almost every game he has played, but the US coaching staff wants to keep the teenager out of media limelight, and understandably so.
Waiting for the Messi show
Angel Batista took over the Argentine squad as the interim manager following Maradona’s World Cup shortcomings. However, the coach impressed in his first three games, and Argentine Football Association duly extended his contract.
The 4-3-3 formation deployed by Batista has allowed Argentine players a lot of freedom down both flanks. Nothing much is expected to change in terms of formation as Batista would like to further hone his side’s efficiency on the flanks. The squad is a blend of youth and experience, but for neutrals, it matters not. The spotlight will be on one player, as it has been for the past three seasons, Lionel Messi. Critics may point out to Messi’s international shortcomings, but little Leo remains a footballing genius capable of mesmerising magic. It's only a matter of time before Messi starts making his presence felt on the International stage.
Javier Zanetti was shockingly left out of Maradona’s 23-man squad for South Africa last year but the veteran is back in the national setup. His presence has added an element of solidarity to an otherwise shaky backline. Sergio Romero's reliable hands will aslo be back in goal for the South American side.
Prediction
US were extremely fortunate to have escaped with a draw 2 years back. Lady Luck is unlikely to be on their side this time around. Unlike the squad that went to South Africa for the World Cup, the current Argentine squad is blessed with prodigious talent, guile and experience. Although US have good players who know how to keep possession of the ball, playing against a team that always plays at a high tempo would see them concede possession regularly.
The final score line will read 1-2 in Argentina’s favour.