Will Lionel Messi play in Copa America quarter-finals? Argentina deliver crucial update on talismanic captain after he sits out Peru victory through injury

Argentina are sweating on the fitness of captain Messi ahead of the quarter-finals of the Copa America. Messi played in the opening group games against Canada and Chile but missed the 2-0 win over Peru last time out after complaining of hamstring discomfort and is a doubt for their next match.

Messi admitted after Argentina’s win over Chile that he had been suffering with some discomfort which means it was no great surprise to see him sit out the clash with Peru. Argentina have now announced that Messi is improving but have stopped short of confirming when the 37-year-old Inter Miami superstar is expected to return to action.

Assistant coach Walter Samuel told reporters: “He was in the locker room, we noticed him better. The situation is improving but it’s a few days and the situation is premature to talk about. We’ll talk about it on a day-to-day basis with him, and talk to the doctors.”

Team-mate Angel Di Maria felt more confident about Messi’s fitness. He added: “Leo is fine, he’s recovering, we hope he will be ready for the next game. Today’s victory is for him.”

Messi has yet to score at the 2024 Copa America. It’s the first time he’s ever failed to find the back of the net in the group stages of an international tournament

Argentina will be eager to have their talisman available for the quarter-final clash, and Messi does have another four days to recover. The defending Copa America champions will face either Ecuador or Mexico on Thursday, July 4 at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.