THE REAL GOAT: Messi shines on International stage …wins first trophy for Argentina

Lionel Messi ended his wait for a first major international title for Argentina as they beat Brazil in the Copa America final in Rio’s Maracana stadium yesterday.

Messi, 34, dropped to the ground in joy at the full-time whistle and was mobbed by his team-mates, before being hurled in the air in celebration, as he finally claimed top-level honours with his country in his 10th major tournament.

He also helped end Argentina’s 28-year spell since they last won the competition and was named player of the tournament after his four goals in the competition.

Angel di Maria proved the match winner with his superb lob, after taking down Rodrigo de Paul’s lofted pass.

Messi had a chance to sign off the win but slipped with the goal at his mercy, in what would have been the perfect finale for the Argentine captain.

“The happiness is immense. Many times I dreamed of this. I had a lot of confidence in this group that became very strong since the last Copa America. It is a group of very good people, who always push forward, who never complain about anything” said Messi after the super clash.

Disappointment

Defending champions Brazil were disappointing, with their only chances of note coming when Richarlison and Gabriel Barbosa forced saves from Emi Martinez.

In a contrast of emotions, Messi’s opposite number 10 and former Barcelona team-mate Neymar sank to his knees in tears at the final whistle, as his own personal pursuit of international success continues, having missed Brazil’s 2019 Copa win through injury.

The pair, who played together at the Nou Camp between 2013 and 2017 before the Brazilian’s move to Paris St-Germain, embraced in a long-lasting hug while they waited for the trophy ceremony.

“If you knew the way that he [Messi] played in the Copa America you’d love him even more. You can never do without a player like him, even when he is not fully fit like in this game and the previous one” said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni.

Tournament Titles

The Barcelona striker has won the FIFA World Player of the Year a record six times and is widely considered one of the greatest players ever to play the game, alongside Pele and countryman Diego Maradona.

Messi finished the tournament’s joint-top goalscorer with four goals and was elected joint-best player along with Neymar.

Fans Reaction

Following the game, there was plenty of reaction as Messi’s legendary status was further cemented across the world on social media.

His ardent fans rejoiced, calling him the official GOAT and demanding the seventh Ballon d’Or for the 34-year-old Argentine footballer.

Future

Questions about his immediate future will now continue to be asked, with Messi now a free agent after his Barcelona contract ended two weeks ago – although Barca have stepped up their attempts to keep hold of their star man with negotiations continuing.

There also remains the prospect of Messi going for what would likely be his last chance of winning the World Cup – something Argentina have not done since 1986 – should he lead his country out in Qatar at the age of 35 in December 2022.