Lionel Scaloni: three casualties, few certainties and many searches – 07/09/2019

These are test days for the Argentine team. That's what coach Lionel Scaloni is doing. In some way or several, the evaluator evaluated. He looks comfortable after the podium in the Copa América in Brazil and after his confirmation as coach by the AFA. Now, time of evaluations of each to the Qualifiers for the World Cup in Qatar 2022, the technician – corresponds to point it out – already generated a clear renovation of the campus. In that sense it goes for more. He wants to consolidate an idea first; then a team; and in the meantime, keep trying alternatives.

The goalless draw against Chile, in Los Angeles, offered some favorable indications. But nothing to boost enthusiasm.

The next step is also a valuable appointment for the analysis, due to the relevance of the opponent: Mexico – directed by Gerardo Martino – has 11 games without defeats and is the current champion of the Concacaf Gold Cup, obtained in July. The meeting will be held at the Alamodome of San Antonio, on Tuesday from 11 p.m. (Argentina time).

In relation to the team that played Thursday night, there are already three guaranteed modifications. Archer Agustín Marchesín, defender Nicolás Otamendi and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso will not be there.

As for the goalkeeper, coach Scaloni confirmed in his last press conference that Esteban Andrada will be headline against Mexico.

The central marker of Manchester City had to return to England for personal reasons. Meanwhile, while Lo Celso will not be taken into account by a blow against Chile. Among other peculiarities of the way of linking the coach with the players: it is open to the needs of the protagonists.

As for the other names to face the match against Mexico, everything indicates that Scaloni will repeat the base that faced Chile. Those who have more chances of being headlines – they point out – are Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Nicolás Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martínez. PFor all of them an important issue is at stake: seek to consolidate.

It will look …