With Argentina’s 2-0 win over Canada in the Copa America opener, Lionel Messi surpassed Sergio Livingstone’s 1953 record to become the player with the most appearances in the tournament. The Argentina captain matched the record of 34 appearances in the final when they won the title against rivals Brazil three years ago.
After playing the game against Canada, Messi holds yet another record all alone, having made 35 appearances in the Copa America. The 36-year-old could make it 40, a seemingly unbeatable record, if he can lead his country to the finals once again.
Lionel Messi sets Copa America appearance record against Canada
2007: Leo Messi's first Copa América
— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 20, 2024
2024: Leo Messi's 𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐡 Copa América pic.twitter.com/hnHmkvxVXr
The 36-year-old assisted Lautaro Martinez for the second goal of the game to seal all three points, and start their title defence on the right foot. Despite a spirited performance from the Maple Leafs, Argentina’s chemistry and passing was on another level and prevented them from getting a foothold in the game.
The game has not been the same since Messi’s CONMEBOL debut in 2007. The 2021 Copa America was the first trophy he lifted with the national team, not counting the Olympics. And since then, he has gone on to win the Finalissima, as well as the 2022 World Cup, ‘completing football’s in the process.
Lionel Messi’s Argentina are the favourites to win the tournament this time around as well, and have one foot in the quarter finals with their win against Canada already.
