During the international break, Argentina secured friendly victories against El Salvador and Costa Rica as Scaloni continues to prepare for the upcoming Copa America this summer. Lionel Messi has been absent from the two matches due to ιnjᴜry, leading Scaloni to give starts to Walter Benitez and Alejandro Garnacho in the 3-1 win over Costa Rica. Following the match, Scaloni cautioned his players that only two spots in the squad for the summer tournament are assured. 

Addressing reporters, he stated, “It is a possibility (Benítez as second goalkeeper), in the world of football nothing is certain. Today he is here, he surely had his great opportunity because it is clear that he joined us, but I cannot assure any of those who have joined us here. Only the one who didn’t join, who you already know [Messi]. The others, they have to work hard. Well, Fideo (Di María) too… He is guaranteed a spot.”

Argentina will undoubtedly rely on Messi for motivation at the Copa America, while Di Maria aims to conclude his international career on a positive note, having announced his intention to retire from international football after the tournament. Di Maria’s impressive free-kιϲk goal against Costa Rica ignited Argentina’s comeback, with Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez also finding the net for the reigning champions. However, Scaloni has emphasized that his players must maintain their hard work if they hope to earn a spot in the squad for the upcoming summer tournament.

Messi is anticipated to make his comeback from ιnjᴜry with Inter Miami on April 3 against Monterrey. In the meantime, Argentina will commence their Copa America journey on June 21 against Canada. Should Scaloni’s team advance to the final, they will compete in Messi’s new home stadium, as the showpiece is scheduled to take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.