Argentina: Protests break out against Macri's policies, Watch video to know more.

Argentina: Protests break out against Macri's policies

Argentina treasury minister resigns. Minister said that significant renewal needed in the economy. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: Argentina treasury minister resigns

Argentina's Economy Minister Nicolas Dujovne resigned Saturday after a week of economic tumult caused by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../mauricio-macri-suffers-crushing-defeat-in-key- argentina-primaries-242365">President Mauricio Macri's defeat</a> in a primary poll ahead of a general election.

Dujovne will be replaced by Hernan Lacunza, economy minister for Buenos Aires province, Argentine media reported.&nbsp;

The country's peso ended the week having shed 20 per cent of its value against the US dollar as both Fitch and S&amp;P cut the South American country's long-term credit rating, citing increased uncertainty and a rising risk of default.

Dujovne said, in a letter posted on the website of La Nacion newspaper, he was "convinced that, under the circumstances, the (government's) management needs significant renewal in the economic arena."&nbsp;

He leaves in the middle of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../argentinas-stock-exchange-crashes-after- president-macris-party-loses-in-primary-election-242522">deepening economic crisis</a> following last Sunday's primary elections in which market-friendly Macri was dealt a huge blow in his bid for re-election when he polled 15 points less than centre-left Peronist candidate Alberto Fernandez.

The primaries serve as a bellwether for general elections in October. Dujovne's announcement marks the first change in Macri's cabinet since voters went to the polls.

Fitch, which downgraded Argentina's credit rating two notches to "CCC," said the centre-right's defeat "increases risks of a break from the policy strategy of the current administration of Mauricio Macri guided by a program with the IMF."

Fernandez, now the clear favourite to unseat Macri, has questioned the reform program backed by a $56 billion rescue package from the International Monetary Fund.

Standard &amp; Poor's dropped Argentina's rating a single grade from "B" to "B-."

"My resignation is consistent with a government and political space that listens to the people and that acts accordingly," Dujovne said, in a clear message to the Argentine electorate, which still has two months left until voting in the presidential elections.

The country is currently in a recession and posted 22 per cent inflation for the first half of the year -- one of the highest rates in the world -- but the IMF said Macri's reform program was beginning to yield results.

The new economy minister will have the difficult task of trying to instil peace of mind in the markets while simultaneously dealing with the country's recession in the midst of Macri's uphill election battle.

In Argentina, 32 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line.

The country has annual inflation of more than 50 per cent.&nbsp;

Argentina's Economy Minister Nicolas Dujovne resigned Saturday after a week of economic tumult caused by President Mauricio Macri's defeat in a primary poll ahead of a general election.

Argentina's Economy Minister Nicolas Dujovne resigned Saturday after a week of economic tumult caused by President Mauricio Macri's defeat in a primary poll ahead of a general election. Dujovne will be replaced by Hernan Lacunza, economy minister for Buenos Aires province, Argentine media reported. The country's peso ended the week having shed 20 per cent of its value against the US dollar as both Fitch and S&P cut the South American country's long-term credit rating, citing increased uncertainty and a rising risk of default. Dujovne said, in a letter posted on the website of La Nacion newspaper, he was "convinced that, under the circumstances, the (government's) management needs significant renewal in the economic arena." He leaves in the middle of a deepening economic crisis following last Sunday's primary elections in which market-friendly Macri was dealt a huge blow in his bid for re-election when he polled 15 points less than centre-left Peronist candidate Alberto Fernandez. The primaries serve as a bellwether for general elections in October. Dujovne's announcement marks the first change in Macri's cabinet since voters went to the polls. Fitch, which downgraded Argentina's credit rating two notches to "CCC," said the centre-right's defeat "increases risks of a break from the policy strategy of the current administration of Mauricio Macri guided by a program with the IMF." Fernandez, now the clear favourite to unseat Macri, has questioned the reform program backed by a $56 billion rescue package from the International Monetary Fund. Standard & Poor's dropped Argentina's rating a single grade from "B" to "B-." "My resignation is consistent with a government and political space that listens to the people and that acts accordingly," Dujovne said, in a clear message to the Argentine electorate, which still has two months left until voting in the presidential elections. The country is currently in a recession and posted 22 per cent inflation for the first half of the year -- one of the highest rates in the world -- but the IMF said Macri's reform program was beginning to yield results. The new economy minister will have the difficult task of trying to instil peace of mind in the markets while simultaneously dealing with the country's recession in the midst of Macri's uphill election battle. In Argentina, 32 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. The country has annual inflation of more than 50 per cent.

Argentina's economy minister Nicolas Dujovne resigns amid deepening crisis

Argentine authorities and Interpol detained on Friday a&nbsp;businessman&nbsp;who was at the&nbsp;centre&nbsp;of a&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;scandal&nbsp;in 2004 that hurt the reputation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-president-hints-at-migration-concessions-to-defuse-us-trade-spat-223536">Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador</a>, who at the time was Mexico City's mayor and is now the nation's president.

The detained Argentine&nbsp;businessman&nbsp;Carlos Ahumada was filmed in 2004 giving bundles of money to Lopez Obrador's main ally in the City Council, Rene Bejarano.

Support for Lopez Obrador at the time was battered by the graft&nbsp;scandal.

Ahumada was detained at the request of&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;authorities and a process to extradite him to Mexico will begin immediately, the&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;attorney general's office (FGR) said in a statement.

The FGR said it suspects Ahumada of committing tax fraud of around 1.47 million pesos ($74,910).&nbsp;

In 2004, investigators wanted to question him over an alleged $3 million in missing public funds.

Lopez Obrador, who took office in December, has made fighting corruption a cornerstone of his administration.

Argentine authorities and Interpol detained on Friday a businessman who was at the centre of a Mexican corruption scandal in 2004 that hurt the reputation of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who at the time was Mexico City's mayor and is now the nation's president.

Argentine authorities and Interpol detained on Friday a businessman who was at the centre of a Mexican corruption scandal in 2004 that hurt the reputation of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who at the time was Mexico City's mayor and is now the nation's president. The detained Argentine businessman Carlos Ahumada was filmed in 2004 giving bundles of money to Lopez Obrador's main ally in the City Council, Rene Bejarano. Support for Lopez Obrador at the time was battered by the graft scandal. Ahumada was detained at the request of Mexican authorities and a process to extradite him to Mexico will begin immediately, the Mexican attorney general's office (FGR) said in a statement. The FGR said it suspects Ahumada of committing tax fraud of around 1.47 million pesos ($74,910). In 2004, investigators wanted to question him over an alleged $3 million in missing public funds. Lopez Obrador, who took office in December, has made fighting corruption a cornerstone of his administration.

Argentina detains businessman at the center of a Mexican corruption scandal

Chinese state-owned construction giant CCCC is preparing a bid to dredge Argentina's Parana River, the country's main cargo superhighway that takes soy and corn from the Pampas farm belt to the shipping lanes of the South Atlantic and the world.

Chinese state-owned construction giant CCCC is preparing a bid to dredge Argentina's Parana River, the country's main cargo superhighway that takes soy and corn from the Pampas farm belt to the shipping lanes of the South Atlantic and the world. Representatives of China Communications Construction Co Ltd and its Shanghai Dredging unit have met with Argentine government and local port officials to sound out the dredging concession, according to three people involved in the talks, which have not been previously reported. CCCC is at the forefront of China's push to lock in food supplies by investing in commodities transport hubs globally. Dredging the Parana is the biggest logistics contract in Argentina. China is already the main buyer of Argentine soybeans while Chinese state-owned conglomerate Cofco has, through acquisitions, become the biggest agricultural commodities exporter operating in Argentina. Shanghai Dredging's interest in the Parana appears part of China's broader effort to "invest across international agricultural supply chains to better control supply and pricing," said Margaret Myers, head of the Asia-Latin America program at the Inter-American Dialogue, a Washington-based think tank. From 2005 through the first half of this year China invested about $579 billion internationally in the energy, power, transport and agricultural sectors, according to Washington-based American Enterprise Institute's Chinese Global Investment Tracker, of which $71 billion went to South America. There has been a flurry of meetings between the world's main dredging firms and port operators preparing a study of the river as a preliminary step to inviting bids next year, according to Argentina's Port and Maritime Activities Chamber and the ACSOJA soy industry chamber. The Parana carries 80 per cent of Argentine farm exports. Marcos De Vincenzi, dredging manager for Servimagnus, CCCC's local partner, acknowledged the Chinese firm's interest in the concession, saying, "We think that the dredging of the waterway must be upgraded to meet its new traffic and trade needs." As world food demand increases, Argentina will likely expand the Parana's navigable channel to accommodate increased cargo. Argentina is already the world's top exporter of soymeal livestock feed and a major global supplier of corn and wheat, and this week's crash of the Argentine peso, driven by political uncertainty ahead of the October presidential election, has made the country's farm exports more competitive. Argentina's transportation ministry declined to comment for this story, and CCCC officials in China did not respond to requests for comment. The Parana is dredged deep enough to allow ocean-going cargo ships to get into the heart of the grains belt, giving Argentina an advantage over agricultural rivals Brazil and the United States, where products move long distances by less-efficient trucks and barges before being loaded for export. GOING DEEPER The dredging concession, set for renewal in April 2021, involves keeping a channel in the river clear for cargo ships. In return, larger vessels pay up to $80,000 in tolls to travel to and from the grains hub of Rosario on the Parana. The current holder of the dredging concession is private, Luxembourg-based dredger Jan De Nul. The firm will compete with CCCC and other dredgers for the 2021 concession, according to industry sources with direct knowledge of the situation. In a meeting with port operators, Servimagnus offered to dredge the Parana deeper than its current 34 feet, without increasing tolls, said a ports source who attended the meeting and is involved in drawing up the tender. Each additional foot of depth would increase efficiency by allowing ships to carry 1,800 tonnes to 2,500 tonnes of additional cargo. "China is already our principal buyer of soybeans. For them to also have control over navigation would give them a very strong stance in negotiating prices," said the ports source, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter. Myers, of the Inter-American Dialogue, said Argentine authorities should be wary of becoming over-reliant on investment or finance from anyone economic partner. "Extensive Chinese presence in critical sectors could give China undue influence over Argentine decision-making," she said. Others argue China could help to keep river cargo tolls down by bolstering competition among dredgers bidding for the job. "I see no problem in receiving offers from all serious companies around the world to make them compete," said Luis Zubizarreta, president of Argentina's ACSOJA soy industry organization that represents farmers, exporters and seed firms.

China set to deepen Argentine trade ties with a bid for grains 'superhighway'

Argentines reeling from an ongoing economic crisis and a shock election result that wiped out around 25% of the peso's value took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Thursday (August 15) for a demonstration that included a mobile soup kitchen for participants.

"It's getting worse all the time"- Argentines protest even as political talks offer glimmer of hope

Argentine President Mauricio Macri vowed to win a second term despite a surprisingly strong performance by the opposition in the primary election that set off a shockwave through markets, crashing the peso currency and sending stocks and bonds tumbling.

Argentina: Economic crisis follows poll results

Gold&nbsp;prices scaled their highest in more than&nbsp;six&nbsp;years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from&nbsp;riskier assets.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;rose 0.7 per cent to $1,521.98 per ounce as of 0715 GMT, its highest since April 2013.

US&nbsp;gold&nbsp;futures rose 1 per cent to $1,533 an ounce.

"It is a pretty straight forward case of&nbsp;risk&nbsp;aversion. Crisis in Argentina and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/hong-kong-protestors-have-made-their-point-to-china-241289">political deterioration in Hong Kong</a>; underlying all of this, global growth is slowing," said Ilya Spivak, senior currency strategist with DailyFx.

"Central banks can only do so much because a lot of them are at near record-low interest rates. There is not a lot of ammunition to deploy as countermeasures to the slowdown in global growth."

Protesters managed to shut down Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo airport, on Monday.&nbsp;

The protests, which started as an opposition to an extradition bill to mainland China, have expanded into wider calls for democracy.

On the other side of the globe, fears of a possible return to interventionist policies gripped the Argentine market after market-friendly President Mauricio Macri lost by a much bigger-than-expected margin in presidential primaries.

These uncertainties alongside fears of a drawn-out Sino-US trade war rattled financial markets, spurring investors to safe-haven assets.

Bullion, along with the Japanese yen and US Treasuries, is seen as a relatively safe investment in times of political and financial uncertainty.&nbsp;

The yen stood near a seven-month high against the dollar.

Investors are focused on the Federal Reserve's annual symposium next week.&nbsp;

Traders see a 74 per cent chance of a 25 basis-point rate cut by the Fed this September.

Lower interest rates decrease the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar, making&nbsp;gold&nbsp;cheaper for investors holding other currencies.

"Heightened geopolitical&nbsp;risks from Hong Kong protests along with global growth concerns remain largely supportive towards safe-haven flows," brokerage Phillip Futures said in a note.

"Gold&nbsp;prices must hold above $1,500 for an extension of the bullish wave in the current term."

Reflecting increased investor interest in&nbsp;gold, holdings of SPDR&nbsp;Gold&nbsp;Trust, the world's largest&nbsp;gold-backed exchange-traded fund, jumped 0.9 per cent to 847.77 tonnes on Monday from Friday.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;may test a resistance at $1,524 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to $1,546, said Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao.

Among other precious metals, silver climbed 1.8 per cent to $17.36 per ounce. During the session, it hit its highest since January 2018 at $17.42. Platinum rose 1.3 per cent to $863.83 and palladium gained 0.7 per cent to $1,437.98 an ounce.

Gold prices scaled their highest in more than six years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from riskier assets.

Gold prices scaled their highest in more than six years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from riskier assets. Spot gold rose 0.7 per cent to $1,521.98 per ounce as of 0715 GMT, its highest since April 2013. US gold futures rose 1 per cent to $1,533 an ounce. "It is a pretty straight forward case of risk aversion. Crisis in Argentina and political deterioration in Hong Kong; underlying all of this, global growth is slowing," said Ilya Spivak, senior currency strategist with DailyFx. "Central banks can only do so much because a lot of them are at near record-low interest rates. There is not a lot of ammunition to deploy as countermeasures to the slowdown in global growth." Protesters managed to shut down Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo airport, on Monday. The protests, which started as an opposition to an extradition bill to mainland China, have expanded into wider calls for democracy. On the other side of the globe, fears of a possible return to interventionist policies gripped the Argentine market after market-friendly President Mauricio Macri lost by a much bigger-than-expected margin in presidential primaries. These uncertainties alongside fears of a drawn-out Sino-US trade war rattled financial markets, spurring investors to safe-haven assets. Bullion, along with the Japanese yen and US Treasuries, is seen as a relatively safe investment in times of political and financial uncertainty. The yen stood near a seven-month high against the dollar. Investors are focused on the Federal Reserve's annual symposium next week. Traders see a 74 per cent chance of a 25 basis-point rate cut by the Fed this September. Lower interest rates decrease the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar, making gold cheaper for investors holding other currencies. "Heightened geopolitical risks from Hong Kong protests along with global growth concerns remain largely supportive towards safe-haven flows," brokerage Phillip Futures said in a note. "Gold prices must hold above $1,500 for an extension of the bullish wave in the current term." Reflecting increased investor interest in gold, holdings of SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, jumped 0.9 per cent to 847.77 tonnes on Monday from Friday. Spot gold may test a resistance at $1,524 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to $1,546, said Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Among other precious metals, silver climbed 1.8 per cent to $17.36 per ounce. During the session, it hit its highest since January 2018 at $17.42. Platinum rose 1.3 per cent to $863.83 and palladium gained 0.7 per cent to $1,437.98 an ounce.

Gold hits over the six-year peak on risk-off sentiment

Argentine President Mauricio Macri vowed on Monday (August 12) to win a second term despite a surprisingly strong performance by the opposition in the primary election that set off a shockwave through markets, crashing the peso currency and sending stocks and bonds tumbling.

Macri's vows to win second term after Argentine peso crashes on primary results

Share markets fell for a third straight day on Tuesday as fears about a drawn-out global trade war, protests in Hong Kong and a crash in Argentina's peso currency kept investors huddled in bonds, gold, and the Japanese yen for safety.

Share markets fell for a third straight day on Tuesday as fears about a drawn-out global trade war, protests in Hong Kong and a crash in Argentina's peso currency kept investors huddled in bonds, gold, and the Japanese yen for safety. Early 0.3 per cent - 0.6 per cent drops from Europe's main indexes after some heavy falls in China, Hong Kong, Japan and other parts of Asia left MSCI's main 47-country world index down nearly 4 per cent for August so far. Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo hub, had reopened after protests closed it the previous day, but the mood remained febrile after weeks of increasingly violent demonstrations in the Chinese-ruled territory. Investors were also still assessing the wider damage caused by Monday's crash in Argentina after its President Mauricio Macri became the latest pro-free market, pro-reform leader to be given a beating at the polls by a populist rival. The response was brutal. The peso collapsed 15 per cent, equities crumbled 48 per cent in dollar terms the second-biggest one-day slump anywhere since 1950 and the bond market crashed, with a 100-year bond that investors had recently gobbled up tumbling 20 per cent as fears of yet another government default spiked. "Yes, Argentina is a small economy. However, the last thing global markets want to see is another market-friendly government fall to populism and/or geopolitics," said Rabobank strategist Michael Every. He added the 'wall of worry' also now includes the trade war, Brexit, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Kashmir, North Korea, South China Sea, Turkey, and Venezuela. "Did I miss anything with tired eyes?" With so much uncertainty around, Europe's traditional safety play, the 10-year German government bond, saw yields hit a new record low. Equivalent US Treasury yields were straining for their lowest in almost three years, gold was pinned close to six-year highs and the yen was within a whisker of a seven-month peak versus the dollar. ING analysts said the yen was benefiting 'from the best of both worlds', pointing to general risk aversion and a rush to the price in more interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. They think the yen, at 105.32 in Europe, will rally to 102 or 103 per dollar later this year. There was also the danger that moves could be amplified as many traders and investors are off for European and US summer holidays. Yet, there was no shortage of gloomy news for investors looking to catch their breath from several months of market ructions. Panic and chaos The weeks-long protests in Hong Kong began in opposition to a bill allowing extraditions to mainland China but have quickly morphed into the biggest challenge to China's authority over the city since it took Hong Kong back from Britain in 1997. A state of 'panic and chaos' now exists, the city's embattled leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, defying fresh calls to quit. As she spoke, the benchmark Hang Seng index hit a seven-month low. By the close, it had dropped 2.1 per cent, dragging down markets across Asia and taking its losses past 6 per cent since the protests began in June. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares skidded 1.2 per cent as Chinese stocks and the Nikkei in Tokyo both fell around 1 per cent too. The dive for safety pushed gold up another 0.5 per cent to $1.523 per ounce and its latest six-year high. Oil prices meanwhile held their ground as expectations that major producers will continue to reduce supplies balanced out worries about sluggish economic growth. Brent crude inched up to $58.74 while US West Texas Intermediate futures were flat at $54.81 a barrel. It comes too with Saudi Arabia pushing plans to float its national oil company Saudi Aramco in what could be the world's largest initial public offering (IPO). "With Saudi Aramco reportedly eyeing an IPO once again, there is some support to the idea that Saudi Arabia has a heightened interest in strong crude prices and will cut its output accordingly," Vienna-based consultancy JBC Energy said.

Shares shunted after Argentina crash, safe-havens shine

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics.

The country's main political parties have already chosen their nominees, so the primary election, known locally as the PASO, serves as the first concrete measure of voter sentiment after a slew of opinion polls showed a narrow margin between<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentine-president-macri-has-slim-lead-for-re-election-in-early-poll-235126"> President Mauricio Macri</a> and main challenger Alberto Fernandez.

Business-friendly Macri is hoping some recent glimmers of economic revival are enough to encourage voters to stick with him despite the current recession and biting inflation. Argentina's country risk fell 20 basis points on Friday and the local Merval index rose 7 per cent.

For voters, sticking with him would mean seeing through painful cuts in public spending as part of the $57 billion standby agreement he negotiated with the International Monetary Fund last year.

Peronist candidate Fernandez, who has firebrand former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner as his running mate, has promised access to free medicines for retirees and better wages for workers while hammering Macri for the uptick in poverty and unemployment as the country grapples with the recession and 55 per cent inflation.

"I don't think that in the face of another Macri triumph, things will improve. On the contrary, they will get worse," said Pablo Vazquez, 48, adding that he is worried about losing his job and has noticed more homeless people on the streets.

Investors, though, see Fernandez and Kirchner as a riskier prospect than sticking with free-markets advocate Macri.

As recent polls show the pair with a narrow lead, markets are bracing for the Fernandez ticket to come out ahead of Macri in Sunday's primary, said Credit Suisse analyst Casey Reckman.

The severity of market reaction could depend on the margin of victory between Fernandez and Macri, and whether or not the winner netted enough votes to indicate a potential win in the first round of the presidential election in October, Reckman said.

To win the presidency outright in October, a candidate needs at least 45 per cent of the vote or 40 per cent and a difference of 10 percentage points over the second-place runner. If there's no clear winner, voters will return for a run-off on Nov. 24.

A widened gap between Fernandez and Macri on Sunday could spook markets, prompting a new wave of volatility that sends the peso spiralling, further dimming Macri's chances of re-election.

"It's a question of whether Macri can continue to build support. The backdrop for his momentum has been the absence of financial volatility, the decline in inflation, improving confidence and some signs of economic recovery. This event could influence sentiment around that question," Reckman said.

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics.

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics. The country's main political parties have already chosen their nominees, so the primary election, known locally as the PASO, serves as the first concrete measure of voter sentiment after a slew of opinion polls showed a narrow margin between President Mauricio Macri and main challenger Alberto Fernandez. Business-friendly Macri is hoping some recent glimmers of economic revival are enough to encourage voters to stick with him despite the current recession and biting inflation. Argentina's country risk fell 20 basis points on Friday and the local Merval index rose 7 per cent. For voters, sticking with him would mean seeing through painful cuts in public spending as part of the $57 billion standby agreement he negotiated with the International Monetary Fund last year. Peronist candidate Fernandez, who has firebrand former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner as his running mate, has promised access to free medicines for retirees and better wages for workers while hammering Macri for the uptick in poverty and unemployment as the country grapples with the recession and 55 per cent inflation. "I don't think that in the face of another Macri triumph, things will improve. On the contrary, they will get worse," said Pablo Vazquez, 48, adding that he is worried about losing his job and has noticed more homeless people on the streets. Investors, though, see Fernandez and Kirchner as a riskier prospect than sticking with free-markets advocate Macri. As recent polls show the pair with a narrow lead, markets are bracing for the Fernandez ticket to come out ahead of Macri in Sunday's primary, said Credit Suisse analyst Casey Reckman. The severity of market reaction could depend on the margin of victory between Fernandez and Macri, and whether or not the winner netted enough votes to indicate a potential win in the first round of the presidential election in October, Reckman said. To win the presidency outright in October, a candidate needs at least 45 per cent of the vote or 40 per cent and a difference of 10 percentage points over the second-place runner. If there's no clear winner, voters will return for a run-off on Nov. 24. A widened gap between Fernandez and Macri on Sunday could spook markets, prompting a new wave of volatility that sends the peso spiralling, further dimming Macri's chances of re-election. "It's a question of whether Macri can continue to build support. The backdrop for his momentum has been the absence of financial volatility, the decline in inflation, improving confidence and some signs of economic recovery. This event could influence sentiment around that question," Reckman said.

Argentines head to polls for primary in first Macri, Fernandez showdown

About 1,500 Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Thursday (August 08) to mark the first anniversary of a failed bill to legalise abortion in the country, with rival protests celebrating and denouncing the move.

Rival abortion protesters rally in Buenos Aires as issue divides Argentina

Tariff wars, duties imposed by Donald Trump and US trading partners

The United Nation nuclear watchdog said on Thursday - it had fixed the timetable for the election of a new director-general following the death of Yukiya Amano two weeks ago.

Member states decided that nominations would be received until September 5, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said following a special meeting of its board of governors in Vienna.

"The Board expects to appoint a director-general in October 2019 and, in any case, envisages that the person appointed will assume office no later than 1 January 2020," it said in a statement.

The US had pushed for a timetable to ensure a new chief would be named by September, but other states were understood to want more time for the process.&nbsp;

The race to succeed Amano will be keenly watched given heightened international tensions over Iran's nuclear activities.

The UN agency is currently confronted with the unravelling of the 2015 nuclear accord with Iran, which began when President Donald Trump unilaterally pulled the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-confirms-kelly-craft-as-ambassador-to-united-nations-239845&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjerMTIr-HjAhUWinAKHZoMBUsQFjAIegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2dKJ5nUXSJsB2FBU7DyArL">United States</a> out of the agreement in May 2018.

At another special meeting last week, the IAEA elected Romanian diplomat Cornel Feruta as its acting director-general until a permanent successor is elected "in order to ensure the orderly and smooth functioning of the Agency".

Feruta has been tipped as one of the likely candidates for the post along with Rafael Grossi, Argentina's ambassador to the IAEA.

Feruta, 43, who worked as a journalist before entering Romania's diplomatic service in 1998, was one of Amano's closest collaborators and had been serving as the agency's chief coordinator.

Amano had led the agency since December 2009 and died on July 18 at the age of 72. No details were released about the cause of death, but he had been ill for several months.

The United Nation nuclear watchdog said on Thursday - it had fixed the timetable for the election of a new director-general following the death of Yukiya Amano two weeks ago.

The United Nation nuclear watchdog said on Thursday - it had fixed the timetable for the election of a new director-general following the death of Yukiya Amano two weeks ago. Member states decided that nominations would be received until September 5, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said following a special meeting of its board of governors in Vienna. "The Board expects to appoint a director-general in October 2019 and, in any case, envisages that the person appointed will assume office no later than 1 January 2020," it said in a statement. The US had pushed for a timetable to ensure a new chief would be named by September, but other states were understood to want more time for the process. The race to succeed Amano will be keenly watched given heightened international tensions over Iran's nuclear activities. The UN agency is currently confronted with the unravelling of the 2015 nuclear accord with Iran, which began when President Donald Trump unilaterally pulled the United States out of the agreement in May 2018. At another special meeting last week, the IAEA elected Romanian diplomat Cornel Feruta as its acting director-general until a permanent successor is elected "in order to ensure the orderly and smooth functioning of the Agency". Feruta has been tipped as one of the likely candidates for the post along with Rafael Grossi, Argentina's ambassador to the IAEA. Feruta, 43, who worked as a journalist before entering Romania's diplomatic service in 1998, was one of Amano's closest collaborators and had been serving as the agency's chief coordinator. Amano had led the agency since December 2009 and died on July 18 at the age of 72. No details were released about the cause of death, but he had been ill for several months.

United Nations nuclear watchdog aims to name permanent chief by October

While Argentina has never beaten New Zealand at rugby in 32 matches, momentum on one side and personnel changes on the other side could give the Latin American nation its best chance yet to reverse that trend when they meet up on Saturday in Buenos Aires.

Pumas eye best chance of first win over All Blacks

Argentinian authorities designated Hezbollah, which it blames for two attacks on its soil, a terrorist organisation on Thursday and ordered the freezing of the Lebanese Islamist group's assets in the country.

The announcement coincided with a visit by US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;marks the 25th anniversary of the deadly bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires in which 85 people died.&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;blames Iran and Hezbollah for the attack. Both deny any responsibility.

Argentina&nbsp;also blames Hezbollah for an attack on the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires in 1992 that killed 29 people.

The Argentine government's Financial Information Unit, ordered the freezing of assets of members of Hezbollah and the organization a day after the country created a new list for people and entities linked to terrorism. The designation of Hezbollah as a terrorist group was the first by any Latin American country.

"At present, Hezbollah continues to represent a current threat to security and the integrity of the economic and financial order of the Argentine Republic," the unit said in a statement.

There was no immediate comment from Hezbollah on the move.

Last year,&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;froze the assets of 14 members of the Barakat Clan, an extended family that officials say has close ties to Hezbollah.

U.S. and Argentine officials say Hezbollah operates in what is known as the tri-border area of&nbsp;Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, where an illicit economy funds its operations elsewhere.

ISRAEL WELCOMES MOVE

Argentina's decision to freeze Hezbollah assets and join the United States in designating it a terrorist group is a significant win for President Donald Trump's administration as it seeks to increase pressure on Tehran and its proxies.

The financial impact on Hezbollah will likely be insignificant because it has other sources of funding, said Seth Jones, director of the Transnational Threats Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

"What the administration is hoping is that even taking little bites out of the apple right now may end up being significant in the long run if they can continue to freeze assets of organizations like Hezbollah in a range of different countries," Jones said.

The United States, looking to revive a security relationship that suffered after a souring in diplomatic ties during the previous administration of President Cristina Fernandez, views President Mauricio Macri as a partner, particularly as traditional European allies have been slower to offer support amid U.S. tensions with Iran, said Benjamin Gedan, director of the Wilson Center's&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;Project in Washington.

"Clearly, they are not a good replacement for European allies, because they don't engage Iran significantly, so they cannot put on the same commercial and economic pressure as the Europeans," Gedan said of Washington's allies in Latin America.

"But at least it gives the impression that the Trump administration is not standing alone," he said.

Other U.S. allies that designate Hezbollah or its military wing a terrorist organization include Canada, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union and Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Macri for the designation from Jerusalem.

"It is time the entire enlightened world understand the grave danger Iran and Hezbollah pose. It is time the entire world stand up against it," Netanyahu said.

Argentinian authorities designated Hezbollah, which it blames for two attacks on its soil, a terrorist organisation on Thursday and ordered the freezing of the Lebanese Islamist group's assets in the country.

Argentinian authorities designated Hezbollah, which it blames for two attacks on its soil, a terrorist organisation on Thursday and ordered the freezing of the Lebanese Islamist group's assets in the country. The announcement coincided with a visit by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as Argentina marks the 25th anniversary of the deadly bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires in which 85 people died. Argentina blames Iran and Hezbollah for the attack. Both deny any responsibility. Argentina also blames Hezbollah for an attack on the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires in 1992 that killed 29 people. The Argentine government's Financial Information Unit, ordered the freezing of assets of members of Hezbollah and the organization a day after the country created a new list for people and entities linked to terrorism. The designation of Hezbollah as a terrorist group was the first by any Latin American country. "At present, Hezbollah continues to represent a current threat to security and the integrity of the economic and financial order of the Argentine Republic," the unit said in a statement. There was no immediate comment from Hezbollah on the move. Last year, Argentina froze the assets of 14 members of the Barakat Clan, an extended family that officials say has close ties to Hezbollah. U.S. and Argentine officials say Hezbollah operates in what is known as the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, where an illicit economy funds its operations elsewhere. ISRAEL WELCOMES MOVE Argentina's decision to freeze Hezbollah assets and join the United States in designating it a terrorist group is a significant win for President Donald Trump's administration as it seeks to increase pressure on Tehran and its proxies. The financial impact on Hezbollah will likely be insignificant because it has other sources of funding, said Seth Jones, director of the Transnational Threats Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. "What the administration is hoping is that even taking little bites out of the apple right now may end up being significant in the long run if they can continue to freeze assets of organizations like Hezbollah in a range of different countries," Jones said. The United States, looking to revive a security relationship that suffered after a souring in diplomatic ties during the previous administration of President Cristina Fernandez, views President Mauricio Macri as a partner, particularly as traditional European allies have been slower to offer support amid U.S. tensions with Iran, said Benjamin Gedan, director of the Wilson Center's Argentina Project in Washington. "Clearly, they are not a good replacement for European allies, because they don't engage Iran significantly, so they cannot put on the same commercial and economic pressure as the Europeans," Gedan said of Washington's allies in Latin America. "But at least it gives the impression that the Trump administration is not standing alone," he said. Other U.S. allies that designate Hezbollah or its military wing a terrorist organization include Canada, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union and Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Macri for the designation from Jerusalem. "It is time the entire enlightened world understand the grave danger Iran and Hezbollah pose. It is time the entire world stand up against it," Netanyahu said.

Argentina brands Hezbollah terrorist organisation, freezes assets

Argentine authorities designated Hezbollah, which it blames for two attacks on its soil, a terrorist organisation on Thursday and ordered the freezing of the Lebanese Islamist group's assets in the country.

Argentina freezes Hezbollah assets

The presidents of Uruguay and Paraguay arrived in Santa Fe, Argentina on Tuesday (July 16) ahead of the biannual summit of South American trade bloc Mercosur.

Presidents of Mercosur trading bloc begin to arrive ahead of meeting in Argentina

Lionel Messi was sent off before halftime and then angrily hit out at "corrupt" tournament organisers after Argentina beat Chile 2-1 to win a bad-tempered third-place playoff at the Copa America on Saturday.

The match was 34 minutes old when Chilean captain Gary Medel shepherded out a ball near his own goal. Messi challenged him from behind and Medel reacted angrily, pushing the Argentine and raising his hands.

The Paraguayan referee showed Medel a red card and even though Messi did not react, he too was sent off, prompting boos in Sao Paulo’s Corinthians arena.

Reports said the Barcelona forward did not attend the ceremony to receive his third-place medal and he later hit out at the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).

"We don't have to be part of this corruption," Messi told reporters. "The lack of respect that they have showed us throughout this tournament.

"Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit.

"I think the cup is fixed for Brazil," Messi added. "I hope that the VAR and the referees have nothing to do in this final and that Peru can compete because they have the team to do so although I think it's difficult."

His comments came four days after Argentina were beaten 2-0 by arch rivals Brazil in a semi-final that was marked by a number of contentious refereeing decisions.

Argentina were furious that VAR was not consulted for two possible penalty decision, with the Argentine Football Association president writing an angry letter to CONMEBOL to express his disgust.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Messi’s frustration was evident in the mixed zone after what was only the second red card of his career.

"You saw what happened," he told reporters. "A yellow would have ended it for both of us. The important thing is that with 10 the team finished well and won."

The referee also showed six yellow cards in a match that was disrupted by 37 fouls.

Sergio Aguero put Argentina 1-0 ahead in 12 minutes and Paulo Dybala made it two 10 minutes later with a nice finish after Giovani Lo Celso put him through on goal.

Artur Vidal pulled one back for Chile from the penalty spot 14 minutes into the second half.

Hosts Brazil face Peru in the final on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro.

Lionel Messi was sent off before halftime and then angrily hit out at "corrupt" tournament organisers after Argentina beat Chile 2-1 to win a bad-tempered third-place playoff at the Copa America on Saturday.

Lionel Messi was sent off before halftime and then angrily hit out at "corrupt" tournament organisers after Argentina beat Chile 2-1 to win a bad-tempered third-place playoff at the Copa America on Saturday. The match was 34 minutes old when Chilean captain Gary Medel shepherded out a ball near his own goal. Messi challenged him from behind and Medel reacted angrily, pushing the Argentine and raising his hands. The Paraguayan referee showed Medel a red card and even though Messi did not react, he too was sent off, prompting boos in Sao Paulo’s Corinthians arena. Reports said the Barcelona forward did not attend the ceremony to receive his third-place medal and he later hit out at the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL). "We don't have to be part of this corruption," Messi told reporters. "The lack of respect that they have showed us throughout this tournament. "Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit. "I think the cup is fixed for Brazil," Messi added. "I hope that the VAR and the referees have nothing to do in this final and that Peru can compete because they have the team to do so although I think it's difficult." His comments came four days after Argentina were beaten 2-0 by arch rivals Brazil in a semi-final that was marked by a number of contentious refereeing decisions. Argentina were furious that VAR was not consulted for two possible penalty decision, with the Argentine Football Association president writing an angry letter to CONMEBOL to express his disgust. Messi’s frustration was evident in the mixed zone after what was only the second red card of his career. "You saw what happened," he told reporters. "A yellow would have ended it for both of us. The important thing is that with 10 the team finished well and won." The referee also showed six yellow cards in a match that was disrupted by 37 fouls. Sergio Aguero put Argentina 1-0 ahead in 12 minutes and Paulo Dybala made it two 10 minutes later with a nice finish after Giovani Lo Celso put him through on goal. Artur Vidal pulled one back for Chile from the penalty spot 14 minutes into the second half. Hosts Brazil face Peru in the final on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro.

Lionel Messi slams 'Brazil fix' after Copa red card

Argentina defeated Chile 2-1 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-slams-brazil-fix-after-copa-red-card-233729">in the third-place playoff at the Copa America</a> on Saturday in an ill-tempered match that will be remembered for the double sending-off and the melee it sparked.&nbsp;

In the first half of the game, Messi was red-carded after getting into a verbal argument with Chile midfielder Gary Medel that later turned into an ugly confrontation.&nbsp;

Along with Messi, Medel was also ejected.&nbsp;

It was Messi's&nbsp;second career red card as&nbsp;the first also for Argentina for elbowing an opponent against Hungary back in 2005 in his debut match.&nbsp;

In the 37th minute of the game, Messi and Medel got involved in a ball dispute near an end line.&nbsp;

Messi came in hard from behind to try to take the ball but Medel wasn't happy as both the players got into each other's faces.&nbsp;

Medel started to push Messi and both the players bumped into each other with their chests and shoulders.&nbsp;

Referee Mario Diaz de Vivar intervened immediately and sent off both players.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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Messi fan boys won't show you who drew the first blood. 
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They are focused on the agenda to defend the midget. <a href="https://t.co/IEFm3diEKe">pic.twitter.com/IEFm3diEKe</a>
— Iron Born 💪🏽 (@Ikemchingy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ikemchingy/status/1147607152544145409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and Chile coach Reinaldo Rueda criticised the referee's decision to send off both players in the first half.

"I saw the replay and I cannot understand what he did to be sent off. It would be interesting to heard from the referee what he saw, and what the VAR people did they saw," said Scaloni.&nbsp;

"It was obvious that the referee took a very quick and strange decision, and the worse of all was that VAR did not rectify his decision," he added.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Rueda said, "It was a pity what happened. it was a situation that it could have been managed (by the referee) in a different way with both teams playing with 10-men."

In the Copa final, Brazil will face Peru.&nbsp;

Argentina defeated Chile 2-1 in the third-place playoff at the Copa America on Saturday in an ill-tempered match that will be remembered for the double sending-off and the melee it sparked.

Argentina defeated Chile 2-1 in the third-place playoff at the Copa America on Saturday in an ill-tempered match that will be remembered for the double sending-off and the melee it sparked. In the first half of the game, Messi was red-carded after getting into a verbal argument with Chile midfielder Gary Medel that later turned into an ugly confrontation. Along with Messi, Medel was also ejected. It was Messi's second career red card as the first also for Argentina for elbowing an opponent against Hungary back in 2005 in his debut match. In the 37th minute of the game, Messi and Medel got involved in a ball dispute near an end line. Messi came in hard from behind to try to take the ball but Medel wasn't happy as both the players got into each other's faces. Medel started to push Messi and both the players bumped into each other with their chests and shoulders. Referee Mario Diaz de Vivar intervened immediately and sent off both players. Watch the video: Messi fan boys won't show you who drew the first blood. . They are focused on the agenda to defend the midget. pic.twitter.com/IEFm3diEKe — Iron Born 💪🏽 (@Ikemchingy) July 6, 2019 × Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and Chile coach Reinaldo Rueda criticised the referee's decision to send off both players in the first half. "I saw the replay and I cannot understand what he did to be sent off. It would be interesting to heard from the referee what he saw, and what the VAR people did they saw," said Scaloni. "It was obvious that the referee took a very quick and strange decision, and the worse of all was that VAR did not rectify his decision," he added. On the other hand, Rueda said, "It was a pity what happened. it was a situation that it could have been managed (by the referee) in a different way with both teams playing with 10-men." In the Copa final, Brazil will face Peru.

Argentina's Lionel Messi receives second red card of his career

Brazil have lifted the trophy every time they have hosted the Copa America and will look to maintain this perfect record with a first major tournament triumph since 2007 when they take on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-crush-peru-to-reach-last-eight-229690&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlp8eO3Z_jAhXHinAKHWLJAVkQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0z-f448XhuV4L_HzSxeqPS">Peru </a>in final.&nbsp;

Anything less than a victory for South America's most populous nation and most successful national team at the Maracana will be deemed a monumental failure, however, and could cost Tite his job regardless of the steady progress the coach has overseen.&nbsp;

Despite losing Neymar - their most recognisable and talented player - to injury on the eve of the tournament, the hosts have looked the strongest and most complete side with 10 goals scored and none conceded in five matches.&nbsp;

Their path to glory has been made easier by holders Chile going out in the semi-finals to Peru, who the hosts trounced 5-0 in the group stages with a whirlwind display which had some hailing the return of the dazzling Brazil of the past.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazils-winger-willian-ruled-out-of-final-against-peru-232940&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlp8eO3Z_jAhXHinAKHWLJAVkQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ymqrA9Tc97PVUvdwnBLBG">Brazil </a>captain Dani Alves was accused of over-confidence after posting "That's it" on Twitter after Peru shocked Chile, although the right-back later denied that he was mocking Ricardo Gareca's side.&nbsp;

The hosts are overwhelming favourites to beat Peru, but no-one in the country needs reminding of when Brazil went into the 1950 World Cup final at the Maracana feeling certain of lifting a trophy only to suffer a harrowing defeat to Uruguay.&nbsp;

Brazil defender Marquinhos said no-one in his side was underestimating Peru, who have reached the final of the Copa America for the first time since winning their second South American title in 1975.&nbsp;

Brazil have won the tournament eight times, including four times as hosts.&nbsp;

"We know that in football things change very quickly and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/peru-stun-defending-champions-chile-to-enter-copa-america-final-232901&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlp8eO3Z_jAhXHinAKHWLJAVkQFjAGegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1LJ8j2tX1UdE18Ec3fyq8I">Peru </a>are in a completely different state now, and everyone has to know that it will take a huge effort to beat them, because a final is a one-off game unlike any other," he told reporters.&nbsp;

"It will come down to emotions, tactics and technique. We will have to combine these factors and the tiny details will prove the difference in this game. The team which makes the fewest mistakes will be champions," added&nbsp;Marquinhos.&nbsp;

Brazil have lifted the trophy every time they have hosted the Copa America and will look to maintain this perfect record with a first major tournament triumph since 2007 when they take on Peru in final.

Brazil have lifted the trophy every time they have hosted the Copa America and will look to maintain this perfect record with a first major tournament triumph since 2007 when they take on Peru in final. Anything less than a victory for South America's most populous nation and most successful national team at the Maracana will be deemed a monumental failure, however, and could cost Tite his job regardless of the steady progress the coach has overseen. Despite losing Neymar - their most recognisable and talented player - to injury on the eve of the tournament, the hosts have looked the strongest and most complete side with 10 goals scored and none conceded in five matches. Their path to glory has been made easier by holders Chile going out in the semi-finals to Peru, who the hosts trounced 5-0 in the group stages with a whirlwind display which had some hailing the return of the dazzling Brazil of the past. Brazil captain Dani Alves was accused of over-confidence after posting "That's it" on Twitter after Peru shocked Chile, although the right-back later denied that he was mocking Ricardo Gareca's side. The hosts are overwhelming favourites to beat Peru, but no-one in the country needs reminding of when Brazil went into the 1950 World Cup final at the Maracana feeling certain of lifting a trophy only to suffer a harrowing defeat to Uruguay. Brazil defender Marquinhos said no-one in his side was underestimating Peru, who have reached the final of the Copa America for the first time since winning their second South American title in 1975. Brazil have won the tournament eight times, including four times as hosts. "We know that in football things change very quickly and Peru are in a completely different state now, and everyone has to know that it will take a huge effort to beat them, because a final is a one-off game unlike any other," he told reporters. "It will come down to emotions, tactics and technique. We will have to combine these factors and the tiny details will prove the difference in this game. The team which makes the fewest mistakes will be champions," added Marquinhos.

Brazil aim to maintain perfect record of winning Copa America as hosts for fifth time

The International Monetary Fund on Friday reached an agreement with Argentina that will release the next $5.4 billion disbursement under the loan programme aimed to help stabilize the South American nation's economy.

The IMF board must approve the fourth review of the country's performance under the before Buenos Aires will have access to the funds. The board meeting is set for July 12.

"Argentina's economic policies are yielding results," acting IMF chief David Lipton said in a statement, noting that the government achieved all the targets agreed with the fund including on budget policy and social spending.&nbsp;

"I fully support Argentina's efforts to bolster confidence, lay the foundation for sustainable growth and protect the most vulnerable."

While inflation remains high it "is expected to continue to fall in the coming months," Lipton said. "There are also signs that the economy is improving in the second quarter."

President Mauricio Macri has faced increasing pressure over the misfiring economy with presidential elections set for October.

He was forced to impose austerity measures as authorities struggled to stabilize the currency and rein in inflation to ensure access to IMF funding.

Argentina originally secured a $50 billion financing package&nbsp;from the IMF in June 2018, before returning to the fund to ask for an additional $6 billion and accelerated disbursements in exchange for tougher conditions. 
&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund on Friday reached an agreement with Argentina that will release the next $5.4 billion disbursement under the loan programme aimed to help stabilize the South American nation's economy.

The International Monetary Fund on Friday reached an agreement with Argentina that will release the next $5.4 billion disbursement under the loan programme aimed to help stabilize the South American nation's economy. The IMF board must approve the fourth review of the country's performance under the before Buenos Aires will have access to the funds. The board meeting is set for July 12. "Argentina's economic policies are yielding results," acting IMF chief David Lipton said in a statement, noting that the government achieved all the targets agreed with the fund including on budget policy and social spending. "I fully support Argentina's efforts to bolster confidence, lay the foundation for sustainable growth and protect the most vulnerable." While inflation remains high it "is expected to continue to fall in the coming months," Lipton said. "There are also signs that the economy is improving in the second quarter." President Mauricio Macri has faced increasing pressure over the misfiring economy with presidential elections set for October. He was forced to impose austerity measures as authorities struggled to stabilize the currency and rein in inflation to ensure access to IMF funding. Argentina originally secured a $50 billion financing package from the IMF in June 2018, before returning to the fund to ask for an additional $6 billion and accelerated disbursements in exchange for tougher conditions.

IMF reaches agreement with Argentina to release $5.4 bn loan tranche

Lionel Messi vowed to extend his international career after yet another bid to win a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-beat-argentina-2-0-to-reach-final-messi-blames-bad-refereeing-232618">major title with Argentina ended in failure</a> at the Copa America on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old Barcelona star, who infamously quit international football after Argentina's defeat in the 2016 Copa America Centenario final, said he had no plans to hang up his boots after a 2-0 semi-final loss to Brazil.

"If I can still help in any way, I will continue to do so. I feel really good in this group," said the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

"This is a good, talented generation who showed that they love the national team," he added.&nbsp;

"They have a future and great foundations, they just need to be given time."

Messi will get another chance to break his tournament duck next year when the Copa America takes place in Argentina and Colombia, with the 2022 World Cup looming further on the horizon.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni meanwhile insisted his new-look squad had a bright future despite the defeat.

"Without a doubt, today we showed that this group of players feel the jersey like no-one else," he said.

"We showed an image for the future of this squad and these players and the great path they are on.

"To play in this stadium, in these conditions and to be superior to our opponents.

"It doesn't matter because they're going to the final but if we're aware of what we did today then there's only positives."

He said the defeat was "unfair" claiming that "no other team has created as many goalscoring chances against Brazil as we did."

Messi's best chance came on 57 minutes when he volleyed against the post. Scaloni said the veteran was Argentina's "standard-bearer."

"Brazil were continuously trying to stop passes from reaching him and we kept looking for ways to get him the ball," Scaloni said.

"It was thrilling to see him play. It didn't work out today but he'll have his rematch and the whole squad will have their rematch."

Scaloni was unhappy with some of Ecuadoran referee Roddy Zambrano's decisions, not least the fact that Argentina picked up six bookings to Brazil's two.

"I didn't like the referee, I don't usually make those comments," he said.

"I don't think he was qualified for a match of this level."

He added: "If a midfielder player is on a yellow card this changes things. There were a lot of small details where the match started to lose its balance because of those decisions."

Lionel Messi vowed to extend his international career after yet another bid to win a major title with Argentina ended in failure at the Copa America on Tuesday. The 32-year-old Barcelona star, who infamously quit international football after Argentina's defeat in the 2016 Copa America Centenario final, said he had no plans to hang up his boots after a 2-0 semi-final loss to Brazil.

Lionel Messi vowed to extend his international career after yet another bid to win a major title with Argentina ended in failure at the Copa America on Tuesday. The 32-year-old Barcelona star, who infamously quit international football after Argentina's defeat in the 2016 Copa America Centenario final, said he had no plans to hang up his boots after a 2-0 semi-final loss to Brazil. "If I can still help in any way, I will continue to do so. I feel really good in this group," said the five-time Ballon d'Or winner. "This is a good, talented generation who showed that they love the national team," he added. "They have a future and great foundations, they just need to be given time." Messi will get another chance to break his tournament duck next year when the Copa America takes place in Argentina and Colombia, with the 2022 World Cup looming further on the horizon. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni meanwhile insisted his new-look squad had a bright future despite the defeat. "Without a doubt, today we showed that this group of players feel the jersey like no-one else," he said. "We showed an image for the future of this squad and these players and the great path they are on. "To play in this stadium, in these conditions and to be superior to our opponents. "It doesn't matter because they're going to the final but if we're aware of what we did today then there's only positives." He said the defeat was "unfair" claiming that "no other team has created as many goalscoring chances against Brazil as we did." Messi's best chance came on 57 minutes when he volleyed against the post. Scaloni said the veteran was Argentina's "standard-bearer." "Brazil were continuously trying to stop passes from reaching him and we kept looking for ways to get him the ball," Scaloni said. "It was thrilling to see him play. It didn't work out today but he'll have his rematch and the whole squad will have their rematch." Scaloni was unhappy with some of Ecuadoran referee Roddy Zambrano's decisions, not least the fact that Argentina picked up six bookings to Brazil's two. "I didn't like the referee, I don't usually make those comments," he said. "I don't think he was qualified for a match of this level." He added: "If a midfielder player is on a yellow card this changes things. There were a lot of small details where the match started to lose its balance because of those decisions."

Lionel Messi vows to play on after latest Argentina heartache

Brazil advanced to the Copa America final with a 2-0 win over old rivals Argentina on Tuesday in a pulsating and, at times, bad-tempered match decided by a goal in each half from Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino.

Both sides tried to impose themselves physically early on but it was Jesus who gave Brazil the lead after 19 minutes when Firmino sent in a low cross for the unmarked striker to side-foot home from close range.

The two combined again on the counterattack after 71 minutes to make it 2-0 after great work from Jesus left Firmino with the simplest of tap-ins.

Brazil, who have lost twice in 42 games under coach Tite, will face either Peru or Chile in Sunday's final at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro and captain Dani Alves said their goal was within reach.

"There is one more step to go before we fulfil our objective," he added.

"The standard here is very high there are no easy teams. You have to work and fight for what you want and we worked for this," Alves said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-players-want-to-win-copa-for-lionel-messi-says-coach-scaloni-232236">Argentina </a>have not beaten Brazil in a major competitive fixture dating back to 2005 and that run rarely looked like ending in front of 52,000 fans at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte.

Sergio Aguero hit the bar with a header in the first half and Lionel Messi struck the post 11 minutes into the second period but the visitors had little luck in front of goal and were never on top for any length of time.

While the tournament has been plagued by lengthy stoppages for the video assistant referee (VAR), Tuesday's officials preferred to let the game run, though Argentina were incensed VAR did not come into play when Arthur felled one of their players at a corner.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-messi-cannot-be-neutralised-says-brazil-coach-tite-232345">Messi</a>, who has still not won a major title with Argentina, was more influential than in his first few matches here but was still a pale shadow of the player who has won everything with his club side.

"We had chances, the ball hit the woodwork, it flashed across the six-yard box, there were penalties that weren’t given," said Messi, who like coach Lionel Scaloni complained about the refereeing.

"Today it just didn’t happen," he added.

Argentina bow out after scoring just five goals in five games and are still looking for their first major title since lifting the Copa America in 1993.

"We knew that it would be difficult because of the players they have," Brazil's Casemiro said.

"It’s about details. We knew it would be scrappy and that there would be wind-ups and time-wasting. But we have to congratulate our strikers who did a great job. When they got chances, they scored," added&nbsp;Casemiro.

Brazil advanced to the Copa America final with a 2-0 win over old rivals Argentina on Tuesday in a pulsating and, at times, bad-tempered match decided by a goal in each half from Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino.

Brazil advanced to the Copa America final with a 2-0 win over old rivals Argentina on Tuesday in a pulsating and, at times, bad-tempered match decided by a goal in each half from Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino. Both sides tried to impose themselves physically early on but it was Jesus who gave Brazil the lead after 19 minutes when Firmino sent in a low cross for the unmarked striker to side-foot home from close range. The two combined again on the counterattack after 71 minutes to make it 2-0 after great work from Jesus left Firmino with the simplest of tap-ins. Brazil, who have lost twice in 42 games under coach Tite, will face either Peru or Chile in Sunday's final at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro and captain Dani Alves said their goal was within reach. "There is one more step to go before we fulfil our objective," he added. "The standard here is very high there are no easy teams. You have to work and fight for what you want and we worked for this," Alves said. Argentina have not beaten Brazil in a major competitive fixture dating back to 2005 and that run rarely looked like ending in front of 52,000 fans at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte. Sergio Aguero hit the bar with a header in the first half and Lionel Messi struck the post 11 minutes into the second period but the visitors had little luck in front of goal and were never on top for any length of time. While the tournament has been plagued by lengthy stoppages for the video assistant referee (VAR), Tuesday's officials preferred to let the game run, though Argentina were incensed VAR did not come into play when Arthur felled one of their players at a corner. Messi, who has still not won a major title with Argentina, was more influential than in his first few matches here but was still a pale shadow of the player who has won everything with his club side. "We had chances, the ball hit the woodwork, it flashed across the six-yard box, there were penalties that weren’t given," said Messi, who like coach Lionel Scaloni complained about the refereeing. "Today it just didn’t happen," he added. Argentina bow out after scoring just five goals in five games and are still looking for their first major title since lifting the Copa America in 1993. "We knew that it would be difficult because of the players they have," Brazil's Casemiro said. "It’s about details. We knew it would be scrappy and that there would be wind-ups and time-wasting. But we have to congratulate our strikers who did a great job. When they got chances, they scored," added Casemiro.

Copa America: Brazil beat Argentina 2-0 to reach final, Messi blames bad refereeing

When solar eclipse plunged Argentina, Peru and Chile into darkness

Colombia national soccer team player William Tesillo told local media that he has been threatened via social media after his missed penalty kick in a Copa America&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-chile-beat-colombia-on-penalties-to-reach-semifinal-231415&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwinw_Oby5XjAhWLMI8KHbJPBCEQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3c_LJoGp17QqNxbCY5uHQS">shoot-out with Chile</a> last week cost Colombia the chance to remain in the tournament.

Tesillo's wife Daniela Mejia over the weekend published a screenshot on her Instagram of a message wishing her husband the same fate as Andres Escobar, a Colombian player shot to death after he made an own-goal in a match during the 1994 World Cup.

"They've written to my wife and she published it. They've written to me too," the 29-year-old defender told the local El Pais newspaper in comments published late on Sunday.

Sources with the national police told Reuters they are investigating intimidation via social media directed at the player and his family, but that they haven't opened a formal investigation because Tesillo has not lodged a complaint.

Tesillo's father told local radio the family is counting on God to touch the hearts of people who have written tasteless messages.

"I hope they understand it's football," the elder Tesillo told Caracol Radio.

Colombia national soccer team player William Tesillo told local media that he has been threatened via social media after his missed penalty kick in a Copa America shoot-out with Chile last week cost Colombia the chance to remain in the tournament.

Colombia national soccer team player William Tesillo told local media that he has been threatened via social media after his missed penalty kick in a Copa America shoot-out with Chile last week cost Colombia the chance to remain in the tournament. Tesillo's wife Daniela Mejia over the weekend published a screenshot on her Instagram of a message wishing her husband the same fate as Andres Escobar, a Colombian player shot to death after he made an own-goal in a match during the 1994 World Cup. "They've written to my wife and she published it. They've written to me too," the 29-year-old defender told the local El Pais newspaper in comments published late on Sunday. Sources with the national police told Reuters they are investigating intimidation via social media directed at the player and his family, but that they haven't opened a formal investigation because Tesillo has not lodged a complaint. Tesillo's father told local radio the family is counting on God to touch the hearts of people who have written tasteless messages. "I hope they understand it's football," the elder Tesillo told Caracol Radio.

Colombia's William Tesillo threatened after he missed penalty against Chile in Copa

Lionel Messi has agreed to sacrifice his usual buccaneering style of play for the greater good of his team, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said ahead of Tuesday's crunch Copa America semi-final against Brazil.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-messi-looks-out-of-touch-as-argentina-reach-semifinals-231392&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU-P_kyJXjAhWJQ48KHTlBCogQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Ux-oJDaWzHWJQxKyEKTJo">Messi </a>has not been able to conjure up the same attacking flair at the Copa America that he regularly produces for Barcelona, scoring only one goal in four games and struggling to create chances for his fellow attackers.

But Scaloni believes the five-times world player of the year can offer just as much value to his country as a workhorse.

"We are used to seeing him score three goals in every game and dribble past five players, but we are asking him to do something different and we are more than happy with the job he is doing," Scaloni told a news conference on Monday.

"He has embraced the workload, he is our flagbearer," Scaloni said.

Messi threatened to quit the Argentina team after losing the 2016 Copa America final to Chile on penalties and took a break after the 2018 World Cup before returning to the side in March.

Scaloni said his presence has reinvigorated the rest of the squad.

"The players love <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-were-playing-on-terrible-pitches-says-argentinas-lionel-messi-231100&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU-P_kyJXjAhWJQ48KHTlBCogQFjACegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0o-hmpx7dwYqTCIzSxa1u1">Messi </a>so much that sometimes they say they want to win the tournament just for him," Scaloni said.

"The best player in football's history is lacking a trophy with Argentina, but we all want to win, not just him,"&nbsp;Scaloni added.

Scaloni has chopped and changed his side throughout the Copa America but seemed to stumble upon an effective formula in the 2-0 quarter-final win against Venezuela with Lautaro Martinez and Sergio Aguero joining Messi in the attack.

The coach, who had never taken charge of a team before getting the Argentina job last August, confirmed Aguero would start again but said he had not yet decided on his final team for the semi-final, where they face a tough task.

Argentina lost the 2007 and 2004 Copa America finals to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-reach-semi-final-with-shootout-win-over-paraguay-231055&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjxjuv9yJXjAhUEaI8KHdWXD3AQFjAGegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3m_oRhMndrWvg3MQyMh9ZU">Brazil </a>and have not won against their fierce rivals in a competitive game since a 3-1 victory in a World Cup qualifier in 2005.

"Brazil are looking very strong at the moment, they have been playing together for a long time," added Scaloni.

"We think we can go through, but they're at home, playing their Copa America and the numbers speak for themselves," said&nbsp;Scaloni.

Lionel Messi has agreed to sacrifice his usual buccaneering style of play for the greater good of his team, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said ahead of Tuesday's crunch Copa America semi-final against Brazil.

Lionel Messi has agreed to sacrifice his usual buccaneering style of play for the greater good of his team, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said ahead of Tuesday's crunch Copa America semi-final against Brazil. Messi has not been able to conjure up the same attacking flair at the Copa America that he regularly produces for Barcelona, scoring only one goal in four games and struggling to create chances for his fellow attackers. But Scaloni believes the five-times world player of the year can offer just as much value to his country as a workhorse. "We are used to seeing him score three goals in every game and dribble past five players, but we are asking him to do something different and we are more than happy with the job he is doing," Scaloni told a news conference on Monday. "He has embraced the workload, he is our flagbearer," Scaloni said. Messi threatened to quit the Argentina team after losing the 2016 Copa America final to Chile on penalties and took a break after the 2018 World Cup before returning to the side in March. Scaloni said his presence has reinvigorated the rest of the squad. "The players love Messi so much that sometimes they say they want to win the tournament just for him," Scaloni said. "The best player in football's history is lacking a trophy with Argentina, but we all want to win, not just him," Scaloni added. Scaloni has chopped and changed his side throughout the Copa America but seemed to stumble upon an effective formula in the 2-0 quarter-final win against Venezuela with Lautaro Martinez and Sergio Aguero joining Messi in the attack. The coach, who had never taken charge of a team before getting the Argentina job last August, confirmed Aguero would start again but said he had not yet decided on his final team for the semi-final, where they face a tough task. Argentina lost the 2007 and 2004 Copa America finals to Brazil and have not won against their fierce rivals in a competitive game since a 3-1 victory in a World Cup qualifier in 2005. "Brazil are looking very strong at the moment, they have been playing together for a long time," added Scaloni. "We think we can go through, but they're at home, playing their Copa America and the numbers speak for themselves," said Scaloni.

Argentina players want to win Copa for Lionel Messi, says coach Scaloni

As Argentina and Brazil get ready to lock horns in the Copa America semi-final, Brazil's head coach Tite praised Lionel Messi, saying the forward cannot be neutralised.

He even compared <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-players-want-to-win-copa-for-lionel-messi-says-coach-scaloni-232236&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixrreagpbjAhVKQI8KHa1ZDxUQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0kUoR_6wag3Bv4MT0mo5Ze">Messi </a>to Brazil's Philippe Coutinho and said such strikers can become decisive in such a big tournament.

"You don't cancel out Messi, no, you can slow his actions, but you cannot neutralise his actions," Goal.com quoted Tite as saying.

"Just as Philippe Coutinho does not neutralise himself, Roberto Firmino, David Neres. They will, at some point, be decisive."

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-messi-looks-out-of-touch-as-argentina-reach-semifinals-231392&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixrreagpbjAhVKQI8KHa1ZDxUQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29o5G4A6whVauYenEBekwT">Messi </a>has not been in good form in the ongoing Copa America, but his side Argentina has somehow managed to scrape through to the semi-final stage.

The striker has scored just once for the team in the tournament, as he registered a goal against Paraguay.

Argentina went on to defeat Venezuela 2-0 in the quarter-finals.

The team was struggling to go past the group stage featuring Paraguay, Colombia and Qatar, but they defeated Qatar in their final to progress to the quarter-final stage.

On the other hand, Brazil has had a good campaign in the tournament so far.

The side defeated Paraguay in the quarter-finals 4-3 in penalties.

Tite praised the Brazilian crowd for the support they have shown towards the side in Copa America and he hoped for fans to keep cheering on the side in the semis.

"If the fans can bring all the affection they have given us when we arrived at the hotel to the stadium, it will leave me and all the players gratified and strengthened," Tite said.

Brazil takes on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/martinez-lo-celso-goals-earn-argentina-copa-semi-against-brazil-231338&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixrreagpbjAhVKQI8KHa1ZDxUQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1izmvJdw0TefeLXKl9yDNH">Argentina </a>in the Copa America semi-final later today.

As Argentina and Brazil get ready to lock horns in the Copa America semi-final, Brazil's head coach Tite praised Lionel Messi, saying the forward cannot be neutralised.

As Argentina and Brazil get ready to lock horns in the Copa America semi-final, Brazil's head coach Tite praised Lionel Messi, saying the forward cannot be neutralised. He even compared Messi to Brazil's Philippe Coutinho and said such strikers can become decisive in such a big tournament. "You don't cancel out Messi, no, you can slow his actions, but you cannot neutralise his actions," Goal.com quoted Tite as saying. "Just as Philippe Coutinho does not neutralise himself, Roberto Firmino, David Neres. They will, at some point, be decisive." Messi has not been in good form in the ongoing Copa America, but his side Argentina has somehow managed to scrape through to the semi-final stage. The striker has scored just once for the team in the tournament, as he registered a goal against Paraguay. Argentina went on to defeat Venezuela 2-0 in the quarter-finals. The team was struggling to go past the group stage featuring Paraguay, Colombia and Qatar, but they defeated Qatar in their final to progress to the quarter-final stage. On the other hand, Brazil has had a good campaign in the tournament so far. The side defeated Paraguay in the quarter-finals 4-3 in penalties. Tite praised the Brazilian crowd for the support they have shown towards the side in Copa America and he hoped for fans to keep cheering on the side in the semis. "If the fans can bring all the affection they have given us when we arrived at the hotel to the stadium, it will leave me and all the players gratified and strengthened," Tite said. Brazil takes on Argentina in the Copa America semi-final later today.

Copa America: Messi cannot be neutralised, says Brazil coach Tite

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For the last dozen years, Argentina has been waiting for global superstar Lionel Messi to lead their football team to a major international trophy.

But when the the country needed the five-time Ballon d'Or winner most, Messi failed to emulate the feats of Diego Maradona in 1986 -- when for some he almost single-handedly won the World Cup.

Four times Messi has lined up with Argentina in a major final -- the 2014 World Cup and Copa America in 2007, 2015 and 2016 -- but every time they have lost.

He has often come under criticism for failing to reproduce his Barcelona form when wearing the sky blue and white jersey of the national team.

Now, ahead of a mouth-watering Copa semi-final against hosts Brazil in Belo Horizonte, Argentines are simply waiting for Messi to turn up.

"This is the match for Messi to appear," screamed Ole newspaper's online edition after Argentina beat Venezuela 2-0 to secure the Brazil semi-final.

Ironically, at this tournament, while Argentina's performances have been improving steadily, Messi has, if anything, become less influential.

Argentina were all at sea in their opening 2-0 defeat to Colombia and needed a Messi penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw with Paraguay.

But in the 2-0 win over Qatar that qualified Argentina for the knock-out rounds, and the quarter-final victory over Venezuela by the same score, Messi became an increasingly peripheral figure.

'Not at my best'&nbsp;

He admitted as much after the Venezuela match, saying: "I'm not at my best level, I'm not playing how I hoped I would. I'm not having my best Copa America."

Brazil center-back Thiago Silva is not so convinced, though.

"For me, Messi is the best player in history, the best I've ever seen play. It's a privilege to play against him," said a player who hails from the country that produced Pele, Garincha, Socrates, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.

Messi turned 32 during the tournament and while he doesn't appear close to retirement, it cannot be too many years away.

His game has changed over the years and he no longer produces the same kind of, or quantity of, darting runs at the heart of opposition defences.&nbsp;

He plays deeper than he used to, passes more and is more selective with his runs.

He also rests more than he used to and took an eight-month break from the national team following the World Cup in Russia, only returning in March in a 3-1 friendly defeat to Venezuela.

But he is more than just the star of the team these days, he is the leader and captains both club and country.

During the club season, Messi took the lead in defending Philippe Coutinho, whom he will line up opposite on Tuesday, from criticism levelled at the Brazilian playmaker in the Catalan press.

Messi also defended Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde against the brickbats.

And here, while his and Argentina's attacking performances have been nothing to enthuse about, Messi took the time to praise the team's defensive efforts.

"Defensively we didn't have any problems and the team was very solid at all times," he said following the Venezuela victory, which he described as a "complete" performance.

'Essential contribution'&nbsp;

And Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledges that Messi brings much more than just brilliance on the field.

"For me he gives an essential contribution on the pitch, and if you saw everything he brings in the dressing room..." said Scaloni.

"Messi is Messi, he's the best."

Before the tournament began, much of the talk was about whether Messi could ever land the one thing missing from his impressive list of accolades: an international trophy.

He's won the Champions League four times, La Liga 10 times and the Copa del Rey six times with Barcelona, but nothing major with Argentina, who haven't won anything since 1993.

Tuesday's semi-final in Belo Horizonte looks tailor made for the Messi of old.

Brazil have yet to concede a goal in the competition but despite victories of 5-0 over Peru and 3-0 against Bolivia, they looked ponderous and lacking imagination in the 0-0 draws against Venezuela and Paraguay.

The semi-final promises to be a tight affair, in which a moment of Messi magic could be enough to settle it.

Argentina is waiting and praying for just such a moment.

For the last dozen years, Argentina has been waiting for global superstar Lionel Messi to lead their football team to a major international trophy. But when the the country needed the five-time Ballon d'Or winner most, Messi failed to emulate the feats of Diego Maradona in 1986 -- when for some he almost single-handedly won the World Cup.

For the last dozen years, Argentina has been waiting for global superstar Lionel Messi to lead their football team to a major international trophy. But when the the country needed the five-time Ballon d'Or winner most, Messi failed to emulate the feats of Diego Maradona in 1986 -- when for some he almost single-handedly won the World Cup. Four times Messi has lined up with Argentina in a major final -- the 2014 World Cup and Copa America in 2007, 2015 and 2016 -- but every time they have lost. He has often come under criticism for failing to reproduce his Barcelona form when wearing the sky blue and white jersey of the national team. Now, ahead of a mouth-watering Copa semi-final against hosts Brazil in Belo Horizonte, Argentines are simply waiting for Messi to turn up. "This is the match for Messi to appear," screamed Ole newspaper's online edition after Argentina beat Venezuela 2-0 to secure the Brazil semi-final. Ironically, at this tournament, while Argentina's performances have been improving steadily, Messi has, if anything, become less influential. Argentina were all at sea in their opening 2-0 defeat to Colombia and needed a Messi penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw with Paraguay. But in the 2-0 win over Qatar that qualified Argentina for the knock-out rounds, and the quarter-final victory over Venezuela by the same score, Messi became an increasingly peripheral figure. 'Not at my best' He admitted as much after the Venezuela match, saying: "I'm not at my best level, I'm not playing how I hoped I would. I'm not having my best Copa America." Brazil center-back Thiago Silva is not so convinced, though. "For me, Messi is the best player in history, the best I've ever seen play. It's a privilege to play against him," said a player who hails from the country that produced Pele, Garincha, Socrates, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Messi turned 32 during the tournament and while he doesn't appear close to retirement, it cannot be too many years away. His game has changed over the years and he no longer produces the same kind of, or quantity of, darting runs at the heart of opposition defences. He plays deeper than he used to, passes more and is more selective with his runs. He also rests more than he used to and took an eight-month break from the national team following the World Cup in Russia, only returning in March in a 3-1 friendly defeat to Venezuela. But he is more than just the star of the team these days, he is the leader and captains both club and country. During the club season, Messi took the lead in defending Philippe Coutinho, whom he will line up opposite on Tuesday, from criticism levelled at the Brazilian playmaker in the Catalan press. Messi also defended Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde against the brickbats. And here, while his and Argentina's attacking performances have been nothing to enthuse about, Messi took the time to praise the team's defensive efforts. "Defensively we didn't have any problems and the team was very solid at all times," he said following the Venezuela victory, which he described as a "complete" performance. 'Essential contribution' And Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledges that Messi brings much more than just brilliance on the field. "For me he gives an essential contribution on the pitch, and if you saw everything he brings in the dressing room..." said Scaloni. "Messi is Messi, he's the best." Before the tournament began, much of the talk was about whether Messi could ever land the one thing missing from his impressive list of accolades: an international trophy. He's won the Champions League four times, La Liga 10 times and the Copa del Rey six times with Barcelona, but nothing major with Argentina, who haven't won anything since 1993. Tuesday's semi-final in Belo Horizonte looks tailor made for the Messi of old. Brazil have yet to concede a goal in the competition but despite victories of 5-0 over Peru and 3-0 against Bolivia, they looked ponderous and lacking imagination in the 0-0 draws against Venezuela and Paraguay. The semi-final promises to be a tight affair, in which a moment of Messi magic could be enough to settle it. Argentina is waiting and praying for just such a moment.

Argentina waiting for Messi magic to make an appearance

After carrying Argentina on his back so many times Lionel Messi could be forgiven for having an off day but while his teammates earned high praise for Friday's Copa America quarter-final win over Venezuela the captain did not look like his old self.

Argentina's all-time top scorer often loses out to Diego Maradona in debates over who is the country's best ever player due to his failure to inspire his nation to a major trophy.

While he usually looks to be playing on a different level to his international teammates, against Venezuela it was the five-times world player of the year who looked rusty, slow and the least likely to conjure up a moment of magic.

After four games at the Copa America, Messi has only scored once -- from the penalty spot -- and has not provided any assists, nor has he looked anything like the player who netted more goals than anyone in Europe in the last three seasons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/martinez-lo-celso-goals-earn-argentina-copa-semi-against-brazil-231338">Argentina </a>could certainly do with him rediscovering his form in their next game, a semi-final with tournament hosts and arch-rivals Brazil.

Messi did play a supporting role in Argentina's opening strike against Venezuela, whipping in a cross which Sergio Aguero sent towards goal and Lautaro Martinez flicked into the net with his heel, but it was the only memorable moment of an ineffective display.

His passing was sloppy, his shots were frequently blocked and never troubled Venezuela goalkeeper Wuilker Farinez, and he rarely managed to beat defenders as he usually does with such nonchalant ease.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni did not want to be drawn on Messi's poor display in the post-game news conference but said his presence alone is good for the team.

"Messi's contribution on the pitch is essential, if you could see what he gives us in the dressing room you'd think differently. I assure you it's great to have him here," Scaloni said.

When further pressed on Messi's poor form, Scaloni replied curtly,&nbsp;"All there is to say about Leo is he's the best in the world."

The poor state of the playing surfaces in Brazil also seem to have taken their toll on Messi.

"The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-were-playing-on-terrible-pitches-says-argentinas-lionel-messi-231100&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIlPT7_43jAhUFtI8KHR4MDP8QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0M67OiMRDE0zvSewSeQObE">pitches here are shameful</a>, the ball is like a rabbit, it can go anywhere," he said.

"The conditions are very difficult and it's very hard to dribble properly. This cannot go on," said Scaloni.

After carrying Argentina on his back so many times Lionel Messi could be forgiven for having an off day but while his teammates earned high praise for Friday's Copa America quarter-final win over Venezuela the captain did not look like his old self.

After carrying Argentina on his back so many times Lionel Messi could be forgiven for having an off day but while his teammates earned high praise for Friday's Copa America quarter-final win over Venezuela the captain did not look like his old self. Argentina's all-time top scorer often loses out to Diego Maradona in debates over who is the country's best ever player due to his failure to inspire his nation to a major trophy. While he usually looks to be playing on a different level to his international teammates, against Venezuela it was the five-times world player of the year who looked rusty, slow and the least likely to conjure up a moment of magic. After four games at the Copa America, Messi has only scored once -- from the penalty spot -- and has not provided any assists, nor has he looked anything like the player who netted more goals than anyone in Europe in the last three seasons. Argentina could certainly do with him rediscovering his form in their next game, a semi-final with tournament hosts and arch-rivals Brazil. Messi did play a supporting role in Argentina's opening strike against Venezuela, whipping in a cross which Sergio Aguero sent towards goal and Lautaro Martinez flicked into the net with his heel, but it was the only memorable moment of an ineffective display. His passing was sloppy, his shots were frequently blocked and never troubled Venezuela goalkeeper Wuilker Farinez, and he rarely managed to beat defenders as he usually does with such nonchalant ease. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni did not want to be drawn on Messi's poor display in the post-game news conference but said his presence alone is good for the team. "Messi's contribution on the pitch is essential, if you could see what he gives us in the dressing room you'd think differently. I assure you it's great to have him here," Scaloni said. When further pressed on Messi's poor form, Scaloni replied curtly, "All there is to say about Leo is he's the best in the world." The poor state of the playing surfaces in Brazil also seem to have taken their toll on Messi. "The pitches here are shameful, the ball is like a rabbit, it can go anywhere," he said. "The conditions are very difficult and it's very hard to dribble properly. This cannot go on," said Scaloni.

Copa America: Lionel Messi looks out of touch as Argentina reach semifinals

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