Argentina, the reigning world champions, aim to secure a place in the Copa America semi-finals when they face Ecuador in the quarter-finals at NRG Stadium on Thursday. After successfully navigating the group stage with victories over Canada, Chile, and Peru, Lionel Scaloni's team has demonstrated both defensive solidity and offensive prowess.

While Argentina looked strong throughout the group stage, concerns linger over the fitness of Lionel Messi, who missed the final group game against Peru due to a sore right hamstring. Scaloni plans to assess Messi's condition after training on Wednesday evening. Should Messi be unable to start, there could be an opportunity for strikers Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez to pair up in attack. Lautaro is the tournament's top scorer with four goals in three appearances, despite starting on the bench in the first two games.

Ecuador, having qualified for the quarter-finals ahead of Mexico and Jamaica, suffered a defeat to Venezuela in their opening group B game but recovered to secure their spot in the knockout rounds. Historically, Argentina has a strong record against Ecuador, with no losses since a World Cup qualifier in 2015 and no defeats in Copa America encounters.

However, Scaloni warns against complacency, emphasizing that statistics can be misleading. "I don't believe in statistics, they are there to be broken. Let's hope not. Ecuador is a well-trained team, they have good players and a good coach. It is one of the good teams in the Copa America. It has a real chance of being able to fight for the Copa America," he said.

Ecuador's veteran striker and captain Enner Valencia, the country's all-time top scorer with 41 goals, remains optimistic about their chances. "They have a lot of experience, they've been working together for a long time. They are the best players in the world but we have a young squad with a lot of personality, respecting our opponents but wanting to win," he said.

Friday's quarter-final matchups include surprise qualifiers Canada, who will take on Venezuela. Colombia, who topped Group D ahead of Brazil, will face Panama on Saturday in Arizona. The most anticipated clash sees Uruguay, led by Marcelo Bielsa, take on Brazil in Las Vegas.

Argentina's journey in the Copa America continues to draw attention as they strive to defend their title and assert their dominance on the international stage. With or without Messi, the team's depth and tactical versatility will be crucial in their quest for another Copa America triumph.