Sampaoli hails Messi, Pavon combination

The connection between Lionel Messi and Cristian Pavon impressed Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli.

Published : May 30, 2018 08:22 IST

Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli praised Cristian Pavon's connection with Lionel Messi after his side's comprehensive 4-0 win over Haiti.

Messi inspired his side in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, scoring a hat-trick and setting up Sergio Aguero for Argentina's fourth.

The Barcelona star's third was set up by Pavon, the substitute doing brilliantly down the left before cutting back for Messi to complete his hat-trick.

The duo's combination has impressed Sampaoli, who praised their connection after the convincing friendly win.

"Cristian is a player who has very special characteristics for communicating with Messi," he said.

"He goes to space, he is offering all the time and he has an important dynamic."

Also having an impact off the bench after being introduced on the hour-mark was Aguero, who got on the scoresheet having replaced Gonzalo Higuain.

"Aguero and Pavon came on very well," Sampaoli said.

"Haiti didn't have so many players behind the ball and that boosted their chances."

Argentina face Israel in another friendly on June 9 before beginning their World Cup campaign against Iceland seven days later.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment