South American boss highlights key trait that ‘intelligent’ Liverpool ace adds

Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister gave a good account of himself in Argentina’s win over Canada

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has heaped praise on Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister for his display against Canada in their 2024 Copa America opener on Thursday, as quoted in a report from Ole.

La Albiceleste enjoyed a positive defence to their Copa America title, winning the first game against Canada 2-0 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta thanks to goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. However, they had to work hard for the points on a difficult pitch, with Lionel Scaloni also expressing his disappointment and concerns over the playing conditions.

Alexis Mac Allister, 25, was fortunate to avoid a serious injury, though, and put in a strong performance against Canada. He started and completed the first Group A game in Atlanta, bravely setting up Alvarez’s 49th-minute opener.

The Liverpool star ran onto Lionel Messi’s wonderful threaded pass and courageously beat Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau before nudging the ball into Alvarez’s path inside the penalty area. Martinez sealed the deal for Argentina with a fine finish two minutes before 90 minutes.

After the game, Lionel Scaloni picked out the “intelligent” Alexis Mac Allister for his actions in Argentina’s opening goal against Canada.

Mac Allister had a solid debut season at Liverpool after joining from Brighton and Hove Albion last summer. He was one of the standout performers during 2023/24, helping the Reds finish third in the Premier League and win the Carabao Cup. New manager Arne Slot may look to build the team around Mac Allister, who won over the Kop with his impressive displays at the heart of Liverpool’s midfield.

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The 25-year-old is one of many technically gifted, smart players in the Argentinean squad who can create something out of nothing from anywhere on the pitch. The central midfielder and La Albiceleste will continue their group stage schedule with tough games against Chile and Peru next week.

Due to their win over Canada, the defending champions remain in a good position to progress into the knockout rounds of the competition. Let’s hope Mac Allister and Argentina go all the way and win the Copa America.