'I don't read social media': Scaloni brushes aside claims of FIFA favouritism

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni brushed aside suggestions that FIFA had favoured his side through refereeing decisions or the World Cup knockout draw, insisting he pays no attention to such speculation.

Speaking on the eve of Argentina's round-of-16 clash against Cape Verde, Scaloni said social media had amplified unfounded claims and that he preferred to stay away from the noise.

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"I don't read social media. It's very simple. The problem nowadays is that someone throws out a comment, maybe completely unfounded, but because of some minor incident, the situation suddenly gets blown out of all proportion. I think you just have to completely detach yourself from all that," Scaloni told reporters.

Instead, the Argentina coach focused on the support his team has received in Miami, where thousands of Albiceleste fans have gathered ahead of Friday's match.

The Florida city has been home to captain Lionel Messi since he joined Inter Miami in 2023 and also hosts the largest Argentine community in the United States, with around 30,000 residents. Estimates suggest as many as 60,000 Argentina supporters could be inside Miami Stadium for the knockout tie.

Scaloni welcomed the backing, describing the fans as an extra player for his side.

"Their support is something that I love. We feel their support, they strengthen us and it's not extra pressure for us. I hope they enjoy seeing their team and hopefully we can bring them joy.

"Our fans are our 12th player. Our players were Argentina fans when they were little. Now they're wearing this jersey. I think that this shows the team's character."

The build-up to the match saw hundreds of supporters gather for a traditional Banderazo on Miami Beach, where Argentina flags adorned the park, barbecues sizzled and fans sang in celebration of Messi and the late Diego Maradona despite an early thunderstorm.

While Scaloni warned against underestimating Cape Verde, many supporters were far more confident.

"Argentina is going to come away with a very good 3-0, 2-0 victory," fan Geronimo Guenen predicted. "Argentina has everything it needs to win. It has a very good team, Messi is in very good form, and we can compete with anyone."