Lionel Scaloni: ‘today we were good both in attack and defense’
Lionel Scaloni believes his side gave the “extra rage” they needed to end their run of draws with a 1-0 win against Uruguay in Copa America on Friday.
head coach
Lionel Scaloni
has been under pressure following Argentina’s run of three draws. The first one was their 1-1 draw against Chile in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying earlier this month which was followed by their 2-2 draw against Colombia. Their last one was their opening 1-1 draw against Chile in
Copa America.
However,
Lionel Messi
was able to end this run of draws as he crossed for
Guido Rodriguez
to head in the 13th-minute winner for Argentina’s first victory of this year’s Copa America.
"I honestly believe that in the previous matches we also deserved to win, but due to small mistakes we were only able to draw,"
Scaloni said during his post-match news conference
.
"Today the team gave the extra rage so that they don't convert us and once we were winning we were able to withstand the opponent's attacks. Today we were good both in attack and defense."
Argentina, who have not lost their last 15 games, were strong in defense, having denied Uruguay any shots on target throughout the match which was the second time it has occurred in a competitive match under Scaloni.
In attack, Messi was named man of the match for the second consecutive game.
"Messi and all his teammates made a great effort," Scaloni said. "He speaks very well of the commitment of all the players and fills us with pride.
"They do it for the shirt of their country. This is going to be hard, but the way is this."
Real Betis midfielder Rodriguez was one of four changes that Scaloni made to the Argentina starting XI from the side and it seems he was happy with Rodriguez’s display.
Argentina have scored 10 of their last 11 goals in the first half across World Cup qualifying and the Copa America. The only goal which was in the second half was in the game against Bolivia by Joaquin Correa.
"Guido was always with us and we have valued his commitment for a long time, with his way of training and his way of supporting his teammates," Scaloni said. "Today he had his chance and he did not waste it."
Argentina’s next match is against Paraguay in Brasilia on Sunday.
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