Lionel Messi ends 2024 Copa America goal drought, doubles Argentina’s lead in semi-final vs Canada with help from teammate

Lionel Messi has scored his first goal of the 2024 Copa America, doubling his side's lead in the semi-final against Canada. The 37-year-old is playing his fourth match of the tournament and has now ended his goal drought.

Argentina are on the hunt for a second successive Copa America title and a fourth international title in three years. La Albiceleste have had to do much of the heavy lifting at the ongoing tournament without a great deal of contribution from their mercurial captain thus far.

Lionel Messi, who missed a game through injury, has had to wait until the semi-finals to score his first goal of the tournament. The Inter Miami star was the beneficiary of an Enzo Fernandez effort, which he turned past the goalkeeper with a slight touch in the 51st minute.

The goal from Messi was the 14th in the tournament in his career and the 109th of his international career. The veteran forward had earlier recorded an assist, also against Canada, in the tournament, and now has a goal as well.

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Lionel Messi scores as Argentina maintain control of Copa America clash vs Canada

Seeking a first Copa America title, Canada have done well to give the number one ranked team in the world a run for their money in the USA. The first meeting between the sides in Group A saw Argentina claim a 2-0 win, with Lionel Messi recording an assist.

At the MetLife Stadium in the semi-final, Canada were firmly in the game when Julian Alvarez ran onto a through ball from Rodrigo De Paul and put Argentina ahead. The North Americans remained in the game until Messi's goal, which has put the champions in firm control.

Considering how the game has panned out so far, Messi and company are expected to hold on and book their berth in the final without much hassle.