Stars

Messi stirs hopes for Argentina in 2011 Copa America

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-06-30 14:32

Argentina's Lionel Messi smiles during their practice session at the squad's camp, ahead of the Copa America soccer tournament, in Buenos Aires, June 29, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]

Uruguay threat

Uruguay come to the tournament on the back of their fourth place at the World Cup and with hardly any changes in personnel or style but a fresher 32-year-old Diego Forlan after a tough season in Spain that included an alarming loss of form.

"There is a very strong (team) base around Diego Forlan (and) he is in very good physical condition (after a refreshing break)," said coach Oscar Tabarez, one of the few coaches to survive a post-World Cup cull.

Uruguay will also play a match in La Plata - an obligation for the seeded teams in the three groups - but only when they meet guest team Mexico there on June 12. They kick off Group C in the Andean city of San Juan against Peru on Monday (2215).

Chile and Paraguay, who had good World Cups last year, especially the latter with their place in the last eight for the first time, will be tough opponents.