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Argentina captain Lionel Messi was over the moon after his side beat Canada 2-0 in the semi-final of the 2024 Copa America on Tuesday, July 9. The result meant that Lionel Scaloni's side made their second consecutive final at the tournament, having won the previous edition in 2021.
Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute and Messi settled the game in the 51st minute. It was the Inter Miami superstar's first goal of the tournament in four appearances (alongside one assist).
La Albiceleste have marched into the final having scored eight goals and conceded just one in their five games at the tournament so far. Their defense has been firing on all cylinders with four clean sheets in five games.
After the game, Messi spoke about Argentina's imperious run over the past few years. The run has seen them lift the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup and they are now on course to defend their continental title.
The 37-year-old said (via @AlbicelesteTalk on X):
"It's crazy what this group has done, what the Argentine national team has been doing. After this, much more importance will be given to all the finals I played in, and to all those of the old team. We have to enjoy everything we are experiencing as a team and as a national team. What we have achieved is very difficult, and we must take advantage of it."
Lionel Messi sets new record after leading Argentina into the final of Copa America 2024
Argentine maestro Lionel Messi set a new record after leading his side into the final of Copa America 2024 with a comfortable 2-0 win over Canada.
The Barcelona legend was named the Man of the Match for his majestic performance. He scored his side's second goal of the night and looked sprightly despite a thigh injury that has kept him subdued over the past few games.
Far more impressive than the award, however, was the record he set by captaining his side to the final. According to Argentine journalist Gaston Trucco (via @AlbicelesteTalk on X), the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner set the record for leading his national team to the most major international finals in history (seven).
The record was previously held by Brazil full-back Cafu, who reached six finals with the Selecao.
Messi has led Argentina to five Copa America finals (2007, 2015, 2016, 2021, 2024) and two FIFA World Cup finals (2014, 2022). Out of the six, they have been victorious in two (2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup).
