Lionel Scaloni Names Messi and De Paul in Argentina Squad Amid Miami’s Playoff Race

Argentina’s Upcoming Friendly Matches

Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of the Argentine national soccer team, announced the selection of 28 players for friendly matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico this month. Notably, Inter Miami’s star players, Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, were included in the squad.

Match Details

The friendly against Venezuela is scheduled for October 10 in Miami, but their participation is uncertain due to Inter Miami’s crucial MLS match against Atlanta United set for the following day at Chase Stadium. Javier Mascherano, who coaches Inter Miami, provided little clarity when questioned about the duo’s involvement in the Argentine fixture, stating it is currently under discussion.

Following the matchup with Venezuela, Argentina will face Puerto Rico at Soldier Field on October 13. Additionally, Telasco Segovia from Inter Miami has been called up to play for the Venezuelan team in this friendly.

Inter Miami’s Playoff Aspirations

Despite already securing a place in the 2025 MLS playoffs, Inter Miami is still striving for a higher position in the Eastern Conference standings to achieve the vital home-field advantage for the playoffs. Their upcoming match against Atlanta United is also critical for the Supporters’ Shield, contingent on outcomes of various other matches.

For Inter Miami to contend for this title, they must win their last three games while hoping the Philadelphia Union loses their remaining two. Currently, Inter Miami holds the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference with a total of 56 points from 31 matches, recently suffering a 5-3 defeat to the Chicago Fire.