Lionel Messi record in Copa America final as Argentina eye back-to-back titles

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Reigning champions Argentina are once again leaning on the inspirational leadership of Lionel Messi as they seek another Copa America title, following a decisive 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-final of the 2024 tournament.

The World Cup winners showcased their prowess by comfortably defeating Canada. Goals from Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi, who netted his first goal of the tournament, sealed the win.

Argentina now aim to become the first nation to secure three consecutive major international titles since Spain's golden era.

Lionel Messi has faced challenges throughout the group stage, struggling to find the back of the net and missing a crucial penalty in a shootout win against Ecuador. Injuries have also hampered his performance, preventing him from playing at full fitness.

However, Messi delivered a stellar performance against Canada, marking several significant milestones in his illustrious career.

In the semi-final, Messi surpassed Iran’s Ali Daei to become the second-highest international goalscorer in history. Additionally, he has now reached seven finals in his career, with five appearances in Copa America finals.

As Messi approaches the twilight of his career, this could be his last Copa America. The Inter Miami forward has another opportunity to add to his trophy cabinet before potentially deciding his future.

Lionel Messi's Record in Copa America Finals

Despite his incredible achievements, Lionel Messi has yet to score in a Copa America final. He has scored 16 goals in the tournament overall, but his first and only Copa America title came in the last edition in 2021.

Messi's first heartbreak in a Copa America final occurred in 2007 when Argentina was defeated 3-0 by Brazil in Venezuela.

In 2015, Argentina lost to Chile in a penalty shootout, a fate that repeated in the 2016 Copa America Centenario against the same opponents. However, the drought ended in 2021 when Argentina triumphed 1-0 over Brazil.

As Argentina prepares for the Copa America 2024 final, all eyes will now be on Messi to see if he can finally break his goal-scoring drought in the Copa America finals.

His performance could be pivotal in securing another title for Argentina and adding another chapter to his legendary career.