Argentina will be having a hard time in Bolivia in a World Cup Qualifier tonight. Manchester United pair Sergio Romero and Marcos Rojo are expected to start the match, along with Everton’s Ramiro Funes Mori.
Playing in La Paz is always a different challenge for footballers, who need to perform at an altitude of 3,600 metres above sea level. It’s the kind of game which requires different preparation, and Argentine newspaper Clarín is the one revealing all of the national team’s plans for the game.
According to the outlet, the squad will only be flying to La Paz a few hours before the match. That’s so the footballers aren’t exposed too much to the high altitude.
The players will be having a light lunch, with lots of liquid, to avoid stomach problems. They have also gone through extra medical examinations to check they’re safe to play in such conditions.
When in La Paz, come traditional techniques will be wheeled out. There will be individual oxygen tubs for everyone in the dressing room, and those who want, will also be under the effects of Viagra.
Technically called Sildenafil, the Viagra makes a pulmonary dilatation, which would make things easier for players to breathe. That’s an old method used by footballers, although it’s not officially confirmed that it works.
The players, including those from Manchester United and Everton, will then travel to the ground. The altitude’s most severe effects only happen after 24 hours at the site, so the team want to avoid spending much time there.
As Nícolas Otamendi was suspended after a yellow card against Chile, Everton defender Ramiro Funes Mori will get a chance to start tonight, which means Manchester United’s Marcos Rojo will be moved to left-back. Man City’s Sergio Aguero will be dropped and replaced by Lucas Pratto.
Argentina’s expected line up is: Sergio Romero; Facundo Roncaglia, Mateo Musacchio, Ramiro Funes Mori, Marcos Rojo; Enzo Pérez, Guido Pizarro, Ever Banega; Ángel Di María, Lionel Messi and Pratto.
Ronald Koeman and Jose Mourinho will hope their players come back in one piece and not too exhausted.
