News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/10th July 2024
Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance yet again, scoring his first goal of the Copa America tournament in a crucial semi-final match against Canada. The Argentine superstar’s precise left-footed touch found the back of the net early in the second half, contributing to Argentina’s 2-0 victory at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The match saw Argentina dominate from the outset, with Julián Álvarez opening the scoring in the 23rd minute, capitalizing on a pass from Rodrigo De Paul. Messi’s goal came in the 51st minute, where he skillfully redirected a shot from Enzo Fernández, securing Argentina’s lead and momentum for the remainder of the game.
“This group has achieved something incredible,” Messi remarked post-match. “We now look ahead to the final with great significance, knowing what’s at stake for all of us who’ve been part of this journey.”
Argentina, also the defending World Cup champions, will contest the Copa America final in Miami on Sunday. Their path to the final has been marked by resilience and strategic gameplay, overcoming challenges including Messi’s injury absence earlier in the tournament.
The victory against Canada, making their Copa America debut and reaching the semi-finals impressively, solidifies Argentina’s position as tournament favorites. They previously defeated Canada in the group stage opener and have maintained their form throughout, culminating in a decisive semi-final triumph.
Manager Lionel Scaloni expressed pride in his team’s performance, noting the challenges they’ve overcome to reach another final. “We have garnered praise and achieved success with great effort. We understand the magnitude of reaching this stage,” Scaloni stated.
Messi’s goal, his 109th in international play, further cements his legacy as one of football’s greatest players. The match also highlighted the contributions of veteran players like Ángel Di María, who received an emotional farewell from fans upon his substitution.
Looking forward, Argentina aims to secure their second consecutive Copa America title, potentially marking their fourth major international championship in a span of three years. Their journey reflects a blend of skill, determination, and team spirit, setting the stage for a compelling final showdown.
As Messi and Argentina prepare for their next challenge, anticipation builds among fans worldwide for another historic moment in football, showcasing the enduring prowess of Messi and his teammates on the grand stage of Copa America.
