Argentina continue preparations for Copa América but still worried – says coach Scaloni
Lionel Scaloni discussed the scheduled Copa América ahead of Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Colombia.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni said La Albiceleste are preparing for the Copa América to go ahead amid uncertainty, though he still has concerns.
The Copa América is scheduled to get underway in Brazil on Sunday after CONMEBOL controversially removed Argentina and Colombia as co-hosts due to respective political and coronavirus issues.
Brazil were awarded hosting duties, despite being one of the country's worst hit by the COVID-19 health crisis, and Scaloni has already voiced his disapproval of CONMEBOL's decision.
Tite's Brazil are reluctant to host the showpiece South American tournament, with the squad set to shed more light following Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Paraguay.
Argentina are also gearing up for a World Cup qualifier away to Colombia before their scheduled Copa América opener against Chile on Monday.
Scaloni: "I don't know what will happen"
"We know what everyone knows, for now it is being played and we are aware of that," Scaloni told reporters, with Argentina out to maintain their unbeaten record in qualifying on the road to Qatar 2022.
"Now we are focused on the game with Colombia and after this we will surely focus on what is coming."
"We wanted to base ourselves in our training camp, they authorised it and for us it is a great peace of mind," added Scaloni.
"I don't know what will happen after the playoff games are over, but it is very important for us to stay at home.
"What will happen from tomorrow I don't know, we are calm. But the worrying aspect is still there."
Scaloni on Messi
Lionel Messi was on target as Argentina drew 1-1 with Chile in Thursday's World Cup qualifying fixture.
Messi – who also struck the woodwork on more than one occasion – converted a first-half penalty before Alexis Sanchez restored parity for Chile.
On Messi, Scaloni said: "Messi's always marked by two or three people. We are planning on doing something which we have not been doing in the last games. Hopefully we can do it.
"We will have to see what Colombia does. They are the hosts, they just won in a convincing fashion and we will see if they have the same team. Messi being marked is something that we assume."