A touch of Messi, a touch of Hoddle (Video)

Despite all the right words before the 2019 Copa America in Brazil about unity and the side knowing exactly how the boss wants to play, Argentina remains in disarray.

They lost to Colombia 2-0 for the first time since the 90's and then struggled to a 1-1 draw with Paraguay thanks to a VAR penalty.

As Paraguay only drew with Qatar Argentina could still go through from the Group stages by beating Qatar if Colombia beat Paraguay or that game is drawn and Argentina win by 3 goals, which at this stage seems highly unlikely given the way they are playing.

They could also qualify by finishing third and being one of the two best-placed teams, Venezuela holds top spot in that scenario at the moment with two draws, followed by Qatar and Japan with one point each.

Argentina are only the third highest ranked South American side in the FIFA world rankings, Brazil are ranked 3rd, Uruguay 7th and Argentina 11th.

Goalkeeper Franco Armani, centre-back Nicolas Otamendi, midfielders Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso plus of course Lionel Messi, were the only players to retain their place after the first game.

The final group games in this group take place tomorrow. Argentina will play in Porto Alegre at 8pm UK time.

This game will determine whether Tottenham target Giovani Lo Celso continues or goes on his holiday. Nothing will happen regarding his future until his participation in the tournament is over.

Once it is, I would expect a deal to be concluded fairly quickly.

The story that broke yesterday of a Spurs offer for Elif Elmas regular readers have known all about for 2 weeks, having reported it back on 8 June, long before anyone else.
Elif Elmas Offer, Janssen plus cash