Thu Oct 10 20:29:20 UTC 2024: ## Argentina Braces for Venezuela Clash Amid Hurricane Threat
**MIAMI, FLORIDA -** Argentina’s preparations for their upcoming CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier against Venezuela have been complicated by the looming threat of Hurricane Milton. The team, currently training at Inter Miami’s facility in Florida, is closely monitoring the situation as the powerful storm barrels towards the Tampa Bay area.
Captain Lionel Messi, who recently recovered from a right ankle injury, is declared fit to return to the squad after missing the previous qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. The 37-year-old, who now plays for Inter Miami, will be a key asset for Argentina as they aim to secure a crucial victory against Venezuela.
However, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister’s availability remains uncertain. The Liverpool player sustained an injury during his club’s recent game and is currently training separately. Manager Lionel Scaloni expressed concern over Mac Allister’s condition, stating that it is difficult for him to make it to the first game.
“We’ll see if he makes it to the first game,” Scaloni said. “For now, he hasn’t been able to join us, and we’ll make the decision if he’s part of the squad or on the bench or if he plays on Thursday.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mac Allister and the looming hurricane, Scaloni maintains that the team is well-prepared for the match. He emphasizes the importance of safety, acknowledging the concerns surrounding the potential disruption to travel plans due to the approaching storm.
“We work calmly, the truth is that the training place is perfect, we work well, but it is always around this issue and especially when there is the security issue, it is a delicate issue,” Scaloni said. “The match is important, but safety is much more important.”
Argentina is scheduled to face Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium of Maturin on Thursday. The team hopes to secure a positive result in this crucial qualifier, but the looming hurricane could significantly impact their plans and their ability to travel to the match.
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