{
  "id": 11921715,
  "title": "Lionel Scaloni explains why Argentina don't play top opponents in friendly matches",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/04/lionel-scaloni-explains-why-argentina-dont-play-top-opponents-in",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-04T12:11:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Buenos Aires Times",
    "slug": "buenos-aires-times",
    "url": "https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/sports/lionel-scaloni-explains-why-argentina-cant-play-top-opponents-in-friendly-matches.phtml"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni expressed satisfaction with his team's performance in Saturday's 7-0 victory over Burkina Faso, but stated he would prefer to face more challenging opponents. He acknowledged the limited options available for scheduling top-tier international matches. Scaloni expressed his desire to play against stronger teams, but admitted that alternatives are scarce. He emphasized that a team's level of difficulty is not solely determined by the reputation of the opposition, citing Argentina's World Cup match against Burkina Faso as evidence. The coach was pleased to see several young players included in the friendly matches, noting that they bring freshness and enthusiasm. Regarding Tuesday's match against Benin, a significant game marking Lionel Messi's farewell to the national team, Scaloni highlighted the emotional impact and the unique opportunity to witness Messi's final match. He expressed his appreciation for Messi's presence on the field and the significant contribution he brings to the team and his opponents. Asked about his own future with the team, Scaloni stressed that there is no obligation, as he continues the role out of personal passion and a desire to experience the responsibility that comes with it.",
  "summary": "Lionel Scaloni wants challenging friendly matches for his team; Argentina’s coach says he would prefer to face stronger opposition but admits there are few options available: \"Everything is already closed or blocked\" Leer más",
  "key_points": [
    "Lionel Scaloni prefers challenging opponents for Argentina",
    "Limited options for top-tier friendly matches",
    "Emphasized young players' freshness and enthusiasm"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}