Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni has stated that there was need to risk Messi.

Lionel Scaloni did not start Lionel Messi in Argentina’s 1-0 win vs. Ecuador. The Argentina national team coach spoke to the media after the win, discussing his reasoning not to start Messi. Here is what he had to say:

“There are times when there is no need to take risks, not only with Leo (Messi). Today, there are other players that didn’t play, like Otamendi. Di María had his minutes, Enzo came back after an operation.

“The idea is to take care of everyone a little and ensure that they arrive in optimal conditions. In some cases, like with Nahuel Molina, we didn’t want to risk it, because he is not 100% fit.”

Scaloni also spoke about the match. Here is what he had to say:

“I thought it was a good match on our part, and also on Ecuador’s part, very intense for being a friendly. We did what we had to do: try to dominate and handle the ball.”

About the players and the Argentina national team:

“These kids have it in their blood to compete every game. The beauty of this sport is that it always gives you the opportunity to show that you are still current or that you have to change.”

“This team showed that it always competes in any circumstance.”