Lionel Messi scored his first aim of the 2024 Copa America as Argentina beat Canada 2-0 in a semi-final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Messi has struggled for goal-scoring type all through the marketing campaign however was in the best place on the proper time to tuck residence an essential effort that helped Argentina reach the ultimate.
Lionel Messi finally scores at Copa America
He was sharp sufficient to get the important thing contact onto a shot from Enzo Fernandez within the 51st minute that gave Argentina a two-goal cushion.
His effort wanted to be cleared by VAR which in all probability took a few of the juice out of the second for Messi and Argentina, who reach the ultimate regardless of not fairly hitting the heights they’re able to as world champions.
No matter the way it got here, Messi scored his 109th aim in worldwide play, and has taken second place on the all-time worldwide goal-scorers listing from Iran’s Ali Daei.
Messi went scoreless by means of Argentina’s 5 Copa America matches up till now. He additionally missed a match as he was nursing a proper groin/adductor harm, however he has since returned and within the final two matches has regarded nearer to his finest.
Alvarez had scored within the twenty third minute, after getting onto the tip of a go from Rodrigo De Paul and sneaking in behind his marker, he gave Argentina an early lead with a properly taken shot.
Special moments for Lionel Messi
The legendary attacker took time to mirror on what the Argentina group of the previous few years has already achieved.
He believes that the previous few matches involving the group might be one thing actually particular.
“It’s crazy what this group did, what the Argentine national team has been doing,” Messi stated after the sport.
“After this, much more importance will be given to all the finals that I and all of the old group had to play in.”
Argentina will face both Colombia or Uruguay within the Copa America closing which might be performed in Messi’s present base of Miami.
Not solely are Argentina the reigning world champions they’re additionally out to retain their Copa America title.
Argentina coach relieved to reach closing
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni lower a relieved determine after the match.
“It is extremely tough to reach another final,” Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni stated.
“We are carrying a great level of praise with great success. We know how hard it is to get here.”
When will Messi retire?
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