Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni readies team for World Cup quarter‑final against Switzerland

Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina’s national football team, addressed recent criticism that the squad was being favoured by referees. He rejected allegations of bias, saying VAR makes any such influence "very difficult" and that the media’s comments are used by the players as motivation.

Scaloni also stressed the team’s mindset, declaring that there are "no easy rivals" and that Argentina must play with the same passion they had as children. He wants the side to be remembered as one that "never gave up" and highlighted Lionel Messi’s continued contribution, noting that Messi will keep taking penalties as long as he wishes.

After a narrow 3‑2 win over Egypt in the round of 16, Scaloni warned that the upcoming quarter‑final against Switzerland in Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium will be a tough test. The victor will move on to face the winner of the England‑Norway match in the semi‑finals.