Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, faces uncertainty regarding the team’s travel plans to Venezuela for a World Cup qualifier due to Hurricane Milton. While the team prioritizes safety, logistical issues complicate their departure. Key players, including Lionel Messi, are available despite injuries to others, as Argentina leads the South American qualifying standings.
Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed concerns regarding his team’s travel plans to Venezuela for an upcoming World Cup qualifier amidst the threats posed by Hurricane Milton. The hurricane, classified as a powerful category five storm, approached Florida’s west coast where the Argentine team is currently training. While local conditions in Fort Lauderdale may not be severely impacted, the anticipation of floods and tropical storms prompted Florida’s Governor, Ron DeSantis, to declare a state of emergency across more than 50 counties. Scaloni noted, “The game is important but the safety issue is even more important.” He confirmed that the team is prepared to travel but are facing logistical difficulties, including cancelled flights and changes in travel plans due to the hurricane. Scheduled to depart for Maturin, where the match against Venezuela is set for Thursday, the team faced delays and unexpected stopovers because direct flights to Venezuela from the United States were not permitted. He stated, “We will arrive just one day before the game… We have had bad luck with this situation. But the most important thing is the safety and health for the players and the rest of us.” Compounding these travel challenges, injuries have sidelined player Marcos Acuña, and Alejandro Garnacho, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez remains suspended. However, Scaloni confirmed that team captain Lionel Messi is fully fit to play after recovering from an ankle injury sustained previously. Argentina currently tops the South American World Cup qualifying standings with 18 points, two points ahead of second-placed Colombia. In addition to their match against Venezuela, Argentina is set to face Bolivia in Buenos Aires the following week.
Hurricane Milton presents a significant challenge to Argentina’s World Cup qualifying preparations, putting travel plans into jeopardy. With the team training in Florida, they now contend with potential flight cancellations and safety concerns due to the approaching hurricane, which threatens Louisiana and the greater Gulf region. Addressing travel logistics, as well as player fitness and availability, is crucial as Argentina aims to maintain their lead in the qualifying standings and secure a successful outcome in their upcoming matches.
In summary, Argentina’s World Cup qualifier preparations are disrupted by Hurricane Milton, with travel to Venezuela now uncertain. Coach Scaloni prioritizes player safety amid logistical challenges, along with managing player injuries and suspensions. Despite these hurdles, the team’s captain, Lionel Messi, is reported to be fit, and they remain positioned as leaders in the qualifying standings. The outcome of their match against Venezuela will be critical but dependent on their ability to travel safely.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
