MIAMI — While the hand-wringing continues about the U.S. national team’s early exit from Copa America, the tournament goes on with the first quarterfinal Thursday between defending champion Argentina and Ecuador at a sold-out NRG Stadium in Houston.

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentine team, is expected to be back in uniform after sitting out the game against Peru with a groin strain, but it is unknown if he will start or come off the bench. He practiced with the rest of the team Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and teammates have said they are optimistic he will return.

According to Vivid Seats ticket marketplace, the average ticket price to the Fourth of July Argentina-Ecuador game is $343.

The second quarterfinal is Friday in Dallas between Venezuela and Canada, two surprise teams that have already exceeded expectations. Colombia takes on Panama (the Group C runner-up slot U.S. fans were hoping for) on Saturday in Glendale, Ariz.; and quarterfinal action ends Sunday with what should be an entertaining Las Vegas show between Uruguay and Brazil.

Here is a preview of the four quarterfinals, and predictions of which four teams will advance:

Argentina vs. Ecuador

(Thursday, 9 p.m., Fox)

Argentina remains the favorite to win a record 16th Copa crown after going through the group stage with a perfect record. La Albiceleste cruised through its three games, did not concede a goal and beat Canada 2-0, Chile 1-0 and Peru 2-0.

Messi, who tied for top scorer with four goals in the 2021 Copa America, has yet to score this time, although he set up a few goals. Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez has been the Argentine hero and leads the Golden Boot race with four goals in three games. He scored in the 88th minute against Canada and Chile and he put in both goals against Peru at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday.

Martinez dedicated the first goal against Peru to Messi and ran over to celebrate with the captain.

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