Lionel Messi's fitness is a significant concern for Argentina ahead of their Copa America quarter-final match against Ecuador on Thursday. Coach Lionel Scaloni has indicated that a final decision regarding Messi's participation will be made after the team's training session later on Wednesday. Messi missed Argentina's last group stage match, a 2-0 win over Peru, due to a sore right hamstring.

Scaloni expressed the importance of allowing Messi time to recover and stated he would consult with the 37-year-old forward about his readiness. "We'll wait a couple of hours and make the decision. It is always better to have one more day," Scaloni said in a press conference. "I'll talk to him today. I think it's fair that he takes his time and trains as much as possible."

In Messi's potential absence, Scaloni may opt to start both Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez as twin strikers. Lautaro is currently the top scorer in the Copa America with four goals from three games, including a brace against Peru. Alvarez scored in the opening game against Canada. Scaloni emphasized the good form of both players and their readiness to contribute if needed.

Ecuador's coach, Felix Sanchez, acknowledged the challenge posed by Argentina, with or without Messi. He noted that Argentina's game plan is unlikely to change significantly, as they have a cohesive unit familiar with Scaloni's tactics. "We know we are playing a high-level team. Lionel Messi is the player that makes the difference, and we have played against them with him and without him on the field," Sanchez said. "Their gameplan doesn't change much - they are a group who have been with their head coach for a long time, they know their gameplan, and we have had to be ready either way."

As Argentina prepares for the crucial quarter-final, the team and fans alike will be hoping for positive news regarding Messi's fitness, while also having confidence in the squad's depth and the abilities of players like Alvarez and Martinez.