Argentine superstar footballer Lionel Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina winning their opening game of COPA America 2024. The defending champions beat Canada with a 2-0 margin thanks to goals by Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
At the end of what was a bruising encounter, Lionel Messi was seen showing respect to the opponents. The 36-year-old was seen exchanging shirts with one of the Canadian players and appreciating his efforts.
The first half of the game was goalless but action picked up after the break. Lionel Messi twice was the provider in both goals for his side. The veteran star ran the show all night as he made sure that the defending champions came out trumps.
Lionel Messi shockingly misses an easy chance
The game between Canada and Argentina showed that Lionel Messi is human after all. The 36-year-old star missed an easy chance to score a goal that shocked the entire world.
The incident happened in the 65th minute when Emiliano Martinez launched the ball past the halfway line. Lionel Messi was the only player in the opposition half and took the ball clean.
Messi rounded off the goalkeeper and tried to shoot but couldn’t get enough power. It was an easy chance with an open that the Argentine missed and that caused shockwaves around the world.
It is worth noting that both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are playing for their respective sides in a global tournament at the same time. Lionel Messi was recently asked if the fans could perhaps see the two stars share the stage together.
Replying to this Messi said “I always like to play with the best, and he is one of them. I think it will be difficult for us to play in the same team, but obviously I would like to. I was lucky enough to play and participate with many very good players and, obviously, I would also like to do it with him."
Starting his career with FC Barcelona, the Argentine won plethora of titles with the Catalans. At the expiry of his contract, Messi moved to France to play for Paris Saint Germain where he had a tumultuous time. His move to the USA saw him sign up for Inter Miami FC where he has been having a good time and also re-discovered his touch.
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