Scaloni confirmed that Messi will be in the lineup for the friendly against Venezuela in Madrid, which will be his first match with the national team since the World Cup exit.
The five-time world player of the year was called up by interim Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni on Thursday for a pair of friendly matches ahead of this year's Copa America in Brazil.
Maradona said it was particularly frustrating considering that Argentina has a lot of astute coaching minds.
Argentina was without superstar Lionel Messi, and striker Paulo Dybala was ineffective up front in a match where players from both teams complained about the heat.
Messi has made no public comments about his decision to be left out of the Argentina squad, which he hasn't played for since the World Cup.
Argentina interim coach Lionel Scaloni did not call up the Barcelona star, who is reportedly considering his international future after another frustrating World Cup.
Champions France ousted the Messi led Argentines in the Round of 16, blemishing chances for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner to continue the legacy which was left behind by legend Diego Maradona.
Sampaoli was named head coach of Argentina in June 2017 and his last game in charge was the defeat in the last 16 to eventual champions France.
Mascherano, who has played at four World Cups, made his debut for Argentina in 2003 and holds the record for most appearances for Argentina with 147.
Following an exhilarating display between two former champions, France came from behind to defeat Lionel Messi's Argentina.
While acknowledging Messi's exceptional skills, the French coach insisted his players will also need to focus on Argentina's other qualities ahead of the round of 16 clash.
Forty years after their last meeting at soccer's biggest tournament, the former champions meet on Saturday in Kazan for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Argentina's best bet is to score first and control the dynamic, forcing Nigeria to push forward and allowing Argentina to find Messi on the break.
Dinu Alex, an ardent fan of Argentina football team and its captain Lionel Messi, was missing since he left his home in Arumanoor on Friday.
One of the greatest footballers to grace the field turns 31 on June 24 and Lionel Messi doesn't intend to stop any time soon. Take a look at the some of the astonishing records Messi holds.
There's still a chance for Argentina to advance, but the South Americans have to win and their destiny is partly in the hands of other teams.
FC Barcelona superstar Messi missed a penalty which proved costly as Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by 'tiny' Iceland in their campaign opener in Moscow.
Sampaoli hasn't repeated the same team in the 12 games that he has been in charge of the national team.
Francis, who hopes to reach Moscow by June 21, said it is his long-cherished dream to meet Messi.
As the first week of the World Cup is nearing its end, we analyse the main reasons behind the top team's debacle in their opening matches.
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