Argentina’s head coach criticized the World Cup schedule in Qatar following the team’s advancement to the 1/8 finals. Scaloni called the timing of the knockout round sessions disruptive, noting that the last group match had been completed just days earlier and that the team still needed rest and recovery time. He pointed out that, with Argentina finishing first in the group, the setup left players with limited opportunity to refresh, and he highlighted that travel and late-night sessions compounded the strain on the squad. The comment came as part of a broader discussion about player welfare and tournament pacing that resonated with fans and analysts alike.
Argentina clinched advancement from the group stage by overcoming Poland in the decisive group-stage fixture. The match took place at the 974 Stadium and concluded with a 2-0 victory for Argentina. In an opening that saw both teams fail to convert early chances, Lionel Messi missed from the spot, and the breakthrough arrived just after the halftime break when Alexis Mac Allister found the net. Julian Álvarez extended the lead in the 67th minute, sealing the victory for the South American side. The win ensured Argentina finished at the top of their group before moving into the knockout rounds.
In the 1/8 finals, Argentina were set to meet Australia, a team that had just played its final group match a short time earlier. The decisive playoff contest was scheduled for early December, turning the focus toward the next challenge and the tactical approach needed to navigate the knockout stage.
Meanwhile, in a separate storyline, Kelly Nascimento, the daughter of football legend Pelé, addressed past reports about her father’s health. She clarified discussions about his well-being amid reports that Pelé, who faced cancer, had been hospitalized due to heart-related issues and swelling. The clarification helped temper the spread of rumors and emphasized the need for accurate updates about the health of iconic figures in the sport.