Argentina playmaker Messi skips training with ‘cold-like symptoms’ ahead of World Cup quarters

Messi skips training with ‘cold-like symptoms’

PRETORIA, South Africa — Argentine star striker Lionel Messi skipped practice Thursday because of a mild cold, two days ahead of the World Cup quarterfinal against Germany.

Team spokesman Andres Ventura said Messi came out for practice at the University of Pretoria but coach Diego Maradona decided to send him back to his room to rest.

Team doctor Donato Villani said “Messi has cold-like symptoms, nothing serious.”

He added that “tomorrow he will be examined thoroughly.”

Argentina plays Germany on Saturday in Cape Town.