Football superstar Lionel Messi created yet another record in his illustrious career by becoming the new record-holder for appearances in Copa America history during Argentina’s 2-0 win over Canada in their Group A fixture at the Mercedes-Benz stadium on Friday, June 21 (Philippine Standard Time).
Messi failed to get on the scoresheet, as goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez gave Argentina an important 2-0 win as they look to defend their Copa America crown from three years ago.
The record-eight time Ballon d’Or award winner has now made 35 appearances in the Copa America, surpassing Sergio Livingstone of Chile who had 34 appearances to his name. The striker made his Copa America debut in 2007, when he started against Venezuela under former Argentina manager Alfio Basile.
Since then the 36-year-old has played in the 2011, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2021, and now the 2024 edition, bringing his total appearances to 35. Despite playing in five tournaments in the past, Argentina has been able to win only one title, which came three years ago, bringing the country’s total title count to 15.
The football game icon is also on course to become the all-time record goalscorer in Copa America history. Messi has currently scored 13 goals in 35 games, and needs four more goals to tie with the current leaders, Argentina’s Norberto Mendez and Zizinho of Brazil, who have each netted 17 goals.
Lionel Messi has the most goal contributions in major international tournaments, with 26 goals and 28 assists (54 G/A) in the World Cup and Copa América. 👑 pic.twitter.com/iygheE0qTZ
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) June 21, 2024
Additionally, if Argentina win the Copa America title once again, they will become the first team in South American history to win three consecutive major tournaments. They won the 2021 edition and the 2022 World Cup, with Spain being the only other team to achieve this feat, having won Euro 2008 and 2012, sandwiched by the 2010 World Cup win.
Messi, for his part, is coming to the end of his illustrious career and will look to add another honor to his ever-growing trophy cabinet.
As the 2024 Copa America unfolds, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi and the Argentine national team. The anticipation surrounding Messi's pursuit of the all-time scoring record and Argentina's bid for another title adds a layer of excitement to the tournament. Fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if Messi can add another chapter to his storied career.
Argentina's next matches in the group stage will be crucial in determining their path forward in the tournament. The team's ability to perform under pressure and capitalize on their strengths will be key to their success. With Messi leading the charge, Argentina has both the talent and the experience to make a deep run in the 2024 Copa America.
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