Javier Mascherano faces some difficult tactical decisions ahead of the match. He must decide whether to start Messi and who will play in goal if Ustari is unable to play. His choices will have a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
The unforgettable 2022 World Cup final between France and Argentina, which ended with the Albiceleste’s third coronation, will be revisited as Hugo Lloris and Lionel Messi meet again. This time, the stage is different: the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup, with each defending new colors. Lloris, between the posts for Los Angeles Football Club, and Messi leading the attack for Inter Miami, in a duel that promises excitement.
But they are not the only ones with World Cup history in this series. Olivier Giroud, another protagonist of that final. The French striker arrived in the middle of last season at LAFC with great credentials, but has not yet managed to fully win over the fans of the Black and Gold, with just 2 goals in 25 appearances. His presence in this match is in doubt, as a leg injury has kept him out of the last three commitments.
Will Messi start? Will Ustari play? Possible lineups
After his reappearance in the second half against Philadelphia Union last Saturday – he was not part of the Albiceleste for the Qualifiers – and in great shape – he scored a goal – it is estimated that Messi has many chances to start in this duel for the Concachampions.
Another of the unknowns is who will occupy the goal of the “Garzas” after the departure due to discomfort vs. the Union of Oscar Ustari, although Masche downplayed it after the duel in a press conference: “He felt that his calf was loading, in theory it was not more, but yes that they cramped and that is why he asked for the change.”
With which, it is expected that the Argentine goalkeeper will be the owner of the goal. In case that is not the case, who will enter in his place will be Drake Callender, who added the first minutes of the season in the last day.
Predicted lineups
- LAFC: Lloris; Palencia, Tafari, Long, Hollingshead; Tilman, Jesús, Delgado; Ünder, Martínez and Bouanga. Coach: Cherundolo.
- Inter Miami: Ustari; Fray or Luján; Falcón, Allen, Alba; Bright, Busquets, Redondo, Segovia; Messi and Suárez. Coach: Mascherano.
