Argentina defeated Brazil 1-0 thanks to Nicolas Otamendi's header in the 63rd minute to give Lionel Messi-led side a much needed win over their South American rivals. However, many Argentianian fans were taken aback by their international team manager's comments post win with the gaffer hinting at parting ways. (Pics | Football News)
The 2022 World Cup champions' victory was marred by crowd trouble ahead of the game as it caused a major delay in kick-off.
Fans from either teams fought amongst themselves in the stands before the game even began. Brazilian police weer called in and they used batons to disperse the enraged crowds thus creating a fiery atmosphere.
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At one point, Messi even urged his teammates to walk-off but they did return and secured an important win.
However, post-match Scaloni said he needed time to think about his future with Argentina. "Argentina needs a coach who has all the energy possible and who is well ... I need to stop the ball and start thinking, I have a lot of things to think about during this time."
"It's not goodbye or anything, but I need to think because the bar is very high and it's complicated to keep going and it's complicated to keep winning," he added.
The 45-year-old Scaloni, who had his contract extended to the 2026 World Cup after his triumph last year in Qatar, replaced Jorge Sampaoli as coach after Argentina lost to France in the round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup.
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Before he attended the news conference Tuesday, Scaloni was seen giving emotional hugs and kisses to other members of the Argentina staff. It was the team’s last match of 2023.
Argentina leads the 10-team South American qualifying competition with 15 points from six matches, followed by Uruguay on 13 and Colombia on 12. Brazil could end the year in sixth position, with seven points.
The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada will include 48 teams, meaning direct entry for the top six teams from South America.
(With AP inputs)
