Lionel Messi, defying Father Time at 37, declared himself in the midst of his “last battles” for Argentina after firing them into the Copa América final with a goal against Canada. The victory, a convincing 2-0 display, sets Argentina on a collision course with either Uruguay or Colombia for the coveted trophy.
While Argentina’s quarter-final win over Ecuador was unconvincing, Messi rediscovered his magic touch. He orchestrated attacks, connecting with Angel Di Maria and strike partner Julian Alvarez, who also found the net. Speaking to TyC Sports after the match, Messi, now dazzling for Inter Miami in MLS, emphasized the emotional weight of these final chapters with Argentina.
“I’m living it the same way I did in the last Copa América, the last World Cup… these are my last battles, and I’m relishing them to the fullest,” he declared.
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The statement sparked speculation about Messi’s future with Argentina, particularly regarding the 2026 World Cup, which will feature a final on familiar soil – the New Jersey venue where Tuesday’s match was played. However, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni urged caution, stressing Messi’s autonomy.
“We need to give him space,” Scaloni stated. “He knows we won’t shut the door on him. He can stay with us as long as he desires, even after retirement. Let him decide what he wants.”
This Copa América presents Messi with a golden opportunity to add a third consecutive major trophy to Argentina’s impressive recent haul, following their 2022 World Cup triumph and 2021 Copa América victory.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged the impact of veteran teammates like Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi.He viewed this success as vindication for the barren years the team endured previously.
“The truth is, it’s mind-blowing what this group has achieved, what the Argentina national team has been doing,” Messi proclaimed on TyC Sports. “Because after all this, it validates all the tournaments I and the older generation played in.”
“Reaching another final, competing again to be champions – it’s not easy for us,” he added, reflecting on the challenge.
Despite the comfortable victory over Canada, Messi highlighted the overall difficulty of the tournament.
“It’s a tough Copa,” he assessed. “The competition is even, the pitches are dreadful, it’s scorching hot, the teams are fierce.But to be in another final, that’s something to cherish.”
Emiliano Martinez, Argentina’s world-champion goalkeeper, echoed the sentiment. “Being an Argentine, representing this national team in another final – it’s a source of immense pride. It feels just as exhilarating as the first time,” he enthused.
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Argentina marches on, fueled by Messi’s experience and a collective hunger for glory. The Copa América final awaits,and with it, the chance to etch their names further into footballing history.
