World number one Argentina will be in action quickly after their recent Copa America 2024 triumph. The side will play in the Paris Olympics 2024 and will kick start the mega event. Slotted in Group B, Argentina will be one of the teams playing on the first day of the Paris Olympics. With four major international titles in as many years, the La Albiceleste are on a roll and one of the favourites in the competition. Leading from the front, Lionel Messi was at the heart of each of these championships. He already has an Olympic Gold Medal with the Argentina side and will have a chance to add another title to his trophy-laden cabinet. But will Lionel Messi play in the Paris Olympics 2024? If so will he be in the starting lineup for the Argentina vs Morocco match? Check out below. Inter Miami Honours Lionel Messi’s 45 Titles Ahead of 2–1 Win Over Chicago Fire in MLS 2024.
Impressive back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2008 underlined Argentina's determination to commit resources and players to the Olympics to challenge their old rivals Brazil. They currently have resources who have proved themselves on the big stage. But in the Olympic football squads, athletes under 23 are widely selected and have a provision to play three ‘overage players’. That restriction does not apply to women's squads for Olympic competitions. This could allow Argentina’s U-23 coach and old teammate Javier Mascherano to go for Argentina’s GOAT player.
Will Lionel Messi play tonight in Argentina vs Morocco in the 2024 Paris Olympics match?
As mentioned earlier, with three 'overage' players allowed per team, Messi had a chance to represent Argentina at the Olympics. Still, the star has already cleared his stance on the same and opted out of the selection. Ahead of the 2024 Games, Mascherano utilised the ‘overage’ rule to call up veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi and Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, plus Ajax goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Also with Messi’s recent injuries, the star won't be part of any action whatsoever even if missing the MLS All-Star match scheduled on July 25. Covid Fear Hits Paris Olympics 2024, Unnamed Australian Water Polo Athlete Isolated in Games Village After Testing Positive.
The Inter Miami star will be supporting his side with the new Argentine generation looking to bring glory to the country. Argentina missed out on a medal in the last edition of the Olympic Games with Brazil winning the Gold medal and Spain and Mexico completing the Podium finishes.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2024 09:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).