Argentina set sights on Copa glory

Host nation Argentina are busy preparing for next month’s Copa America, looking to claim their first victory in the tournament since 1993.

With stars of the calibre of Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez in the team, few would bet against the hosts but having lost the last two finals to Brazil, coach Sergio Batista will be taking nothing for granted when the tournament kicks off on July 1.

Midfielder Lucas Biglia is anticipating the competition to be intense from the opening game, which pits Argentina against Bolivia in La Plata.

“There are a lot of hopes that we’ll win because it has been a long time since we won anything,” Biglia said.

“We want to be up there as champions, all of us that are in the squad to compete for this cup. There are teams that grow, teams that are hard but, well, all of them want to win.”

Defender Pablo Zabaleta said the team was working hard during training to ensure the best possible result when they take to the field.

“I think that between now and July 1 we have some decisive days, during which we have to work hard and take advantage of being together,” Zabaleta said.

“We have players who will star throughout the Copa America, and will play an important part for us.”

The final will be played at the Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti in Buenos Aires on Sunday, July 24.