Lionel Messi played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2-0 semifinal win against Canada on Tuesday, scoring early in the second half to double Argentina’s lead after Julián Álvarez’s first-half goal.
This victory marks Argentina’s sixth appearance in the Copa América final in the last eight tournaments and their second consecutive final. Argentina previously won the 2021 title.
Messi, possibly in his final Copa América appearance for Argentina, began to find his rhythm and came close to scoring twice before the end of the first half.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner eventually scored early in the second half when Enzo Fernandez’s shot deflected off the Inter Miami forward, catching Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau off guard.
This goal against Canada marks Messi’s scoring against 38 different teams while playing for his country, according to Opta.
Before the semifinal match, Canada head coach Jesse Marsch acknowledged the challenge of facing Argentina, the reigning world champion. Despite his side starting strongly, Canada winger Jacob Shaffelburg missed two early opportunities. Argentina’s striker Álvarez capitalized on a chance in the 22nd minute, scoring with a composed touch and finish to open the scoring.
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