Has Lionel Messi ever won Copa America?

Published at :June 21, 2024 at 8:21 AM

Modified at :June 21, 2024 at 8:22 AM

Lionel Messi will become the first Argentine to play seven editions of Copa America.

Argentina, led by their iconic captain Lionel Messi, currently holds the Copa America trophy and aims to defend their title in the 2024 tournament.

In the 2021 Copa America final, Messi inspired Argentina to victory, defeating arch-rivals Brazil 1-0 in their own territory to end a 28-year trophy drought and secure their 15th Copa America title. The decisive goal came in the 22nd minute from a counter-attack orchestrated by Messi, culminating in Angel Di Maria’s goal past Ederson.

Throughout the tournament, Argentina started strongly, topping Group A with significant wins over Chile, Uruguay, and Bolivia. Messi played a pivotal role, scoring a remarkable free kick against Chile and providing crucial assists in other matches.

Also read: What records can Lionel Messi break at Copa America 2024?

In the quarterfinals, Argentina faced a tough challenge from Ecuador but dominated with a 3-0 win. Once again, Messi shone, contributing two assists and a free-kick goal in a stellar performance.

In the semifinals, Argentina edged past Colombia on penalties after a 1-1 draw in extra time. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez emerged as the hero, saving three penalties to propel Argentina to the final, fulfilling their long-awaited dream of winning a major trophy.

This triumph marked a defining moment in Messi’s international career, silencing his critics by leading Argentina to Copa America glory and clinching his first international trophy. Messi finished the tournament with 4 goals and 5 assists, earning him the Top Scorer and Player of the Tournament awards alongside Brazil’s Neymar Jr.

After enduring multiple final heartbreaks in his international career, Messi achieved his dream of lifting a trophy with his country. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, Argentina also secured the 2022 World Cup by defeating France on penalties.

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