Argentina vs Panama for 2016 Copa America – The Preview: Lionel Messi May Recover from Injury to Play; This is the Start Time, TV Info, Livestream and Ticket Price
The Argentina Forward Is Doing Well After Back Injury
Argentina star player Lionel Messi is expected to play in the game versus Panama on Friday after missing his team's win against Chile last Monday due to injury (lower back pains).
Team manager Gerardo Martino told ESPN FC that the forward will be fit and healthy to play and participate in the team's upcoming game. The 28-year-old soccer player injured his back last May 27 during a game versus Honduras.
"Everything has to do with [Messi] being healthy, in a good condition to play the next game," Martino added. The manager explained that Messi had a hard hit during the game against Honduras but noted that he worked to improve his condition even practicing alone.
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Messi Conditioning His Body
In previous trainings, Martino said the FC Barcelona player has practiced kicking the ball and conditioning his recovering body. He noted that he would be well before Friday.
When Argentina clashed with Chile earlier this week, Messi only watched his team demolish their opponents with a 2-1 win, highlighting the skills of Angel Di Maria, Ever Banega and Nicolas Gaitan, who replaced Messi in the team's lineup.
Messi is a crucial part of the team but Di Maria has not disappointed Argentina in providing an efficient backup for the star player. However, Messi's presence could still be a big boost for the team's offense. Martino also noted that it would be impossible to replace the Barcelona player with any man on the roster.
Still No Assurance on Messi's Participation
However, up to this point there is still no assurance if Martino will field him during the game or give him time to fully recover.
The decision would be vital as Panama will be fielding Blas Perez, who proved to be a worthy opponent after he led the team to the 2-1 victory versus Bolivia. He is expected to bring the same energy to the game versus Argentina.
Panama manager Hernan Dario Gomez said Perez is a player who has had some great moments for the team. "He's been sent to the heavens and the hells, and he's never given up," Gomez added.
The game between the two teams stars at 9:30 p.m., Friday, at the Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Tickets are sold from around $87 to $190. It will also be shown on FOX, UniMás and UDN while livestream is available through this link.
