Regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi continues to rewrite history, guiding Argentina to the final of the 2024 Copa America. The World Champions secured a 2-0 victory over Canada at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, advancing to the championship match.
Set to face either Uruguay or Colombia on Sunday (July 14) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Messi, now 38 years old, has battled evident fitness challenges throughout the tournament.
Despite missing a penalty in the shootout against Ecuador in the quarterfinals, Messi showcased his brilliance in the semifinals, scoring his first goal of the tournament by deflecting a shot from Enzo Fernandez into the net.
Recognized as the Player of the Match in the semifinal, Messi’s performance ensured Argentina’s place in the final as they strive to defend their title. La Albiceleste now has the opportunity to claim a record 16th Copa America trophy and achieve consecutive titles for the first time since the tournament’s shift to a knockout format in 1975.
Following his advancement to the final of the 2024 Copa America, Lionel Messi has become the first footballer in history to reach the final of seven different international tournaments. This achievement marks Messi’s fifth appearance in a Copa America final, having previously played in the summit clashes of 2007, 2015, 2016, and 2021. Additionally, he has contested two FIFA World Cup finals during his career, in 2014 and 2022. Messi’s accomplishment surpasses the record previously held by Brazilian legends Cafu and Carlos.
Messi endured four final defeats early in his career, including losses in the 2007 Copa America to Brazil and consecutive defeats to Chile in the 2015 and 2016 tournaments on penalties. Argentina also faced disappointment against Germany in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final. However, Messi’s fortunes changed dramatically when he led Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America, defeating Brazil in the final. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner reached the pinnacle of his career by securing the 2022 FIFA World Cup title with a thrilling win over France. Now, Messi has the opportunity to achieve a third international title in the 2024 Copa America final. Additionally, Messi guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 finalissima against Italy, a match between the winners of the Copa America and UEFA Euro championships.