After missing their final group fixture because of hamstring discomfort, Lionel Messi was back in the Argentina lineup for their Copa America quarter-final clash with Ecuador.

Their record goalscorer and cap holder will be seeking his 14th goal all-time at this tournament, which would put him on the top-five list alongside Eduardo Vargas and Paolo Guerrero and above former Argentine striker Gabriel Batistuta.

Although Messi was the only Argentine to miss his penalty in the shootout against Ecuador, Emiliano Martinez saved the first two kicks that he faced to help his side advance.

Nicolas Otamendi, who slotted home the winning spot kick, can surpass Roberto Ayala for fifth in all-time caps with La Seleccion if he features on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Argentine boss Lionel Scaloni will coach in his 18th Copa America fixture this week, moving him beyond Carlos Alberto Parreira and one behind Flavio Costa and Alfio Basile for eighth all-time among managers in this competition.

Lisandro Martinez was back in the fold after being rested for their final group game, and the Man United man notched his first international goal on Thursday.

Angel Di Maria was an unused substitute in their quarter-final encounter for the first time at the 2024 tournament, and Enzo Fernandez started for the first time since their matchday two victory over Chile (1-0).

Messi had a new strike partner up front against Ecuador, as Lautaro Martinez, the leading goalscorer at this tournament (four goals), replaced Julian Alvarez in the starting 11 for a second match running.

Marcos Acuna is reportedly back to 100%, though Nicolas Tagliafico may still be the preferred left-back choice.

Argentina possible starting lineup: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Lo Celso, Gonzalez; Messi, La. Martinez

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