Argentina F Crespo to miss rest of Copa America with thigh injury

Jul 3, 2007 - 8:54 PM MARACAIBO, Venezuela (Ticker) -- Argentina striker Hernan Crespo will miss the rest of the Copa America after tests administered Tuesday revealed he has a torn thigh muscle in his right leg.

Crespo suffered the injury while scoring on a penalty kick in Argentina's 4-2 victory over Colombia on Monday night.

"I'm angry, but I know the guys will achieve our goal (of winning the title)," he said. "The squad is fine and ready to succeed."

Crespo will remain with the squad in Venezuela rather than returning home.

"I don't want to miss this at all," he said. "I know I don't have any chance of getting over the injury (in time to play in the tournament again). But I will change my No. 9 jersey to a No. 1, because I'll become the No. 1 fan of the national team."

Diego Milito and Carlos Tevez will battle to replace Crespo in the starting lineup for Thursday's game against Paraguay.