 "Lionel Messi becomes most capped player in Copa America history")
Lionel Messi became the player with most appearances in Copa America history on Thursday as he reached 35 caps in the opening match of the tournament against Canada.
The 36-year-old had shared the record with Chilean goalkeeper Sergio Livingstone (34 caps) since appearing in the final of the 2021 Copa America, where Argentina triumphed against Brazil.
Messi’s appearances in the continental tournament have been spread across seven editions, starting with the 2007 tournament in Venezuela.
The eight-times Ballon d’Or winner could set more records in this year’s competition – he needs four goals to tie compatriot Norberto Mendez and Brazil’s Zizinho as all-time Copa America scorer with 17 goals.
Should Argentina win the title, Messi would also become the first captain to win back-to-back tournaments.
GOL Julián Álvarez. What a pass by Messi. pic.twitter.com/OGunsLXDAP
— MC (@CrewsMat10) June 21, 2024
On the night itself at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Argentina beat Canada 2-0 with Messi involved in both goals even as he was uncharacteristically off the mark in front of goal.
Julian Alvarez put Argentina ahead in the 49th minute and Lautaro Martinez put the game to bed in the 88th minute with Argentina thwarted time and again by Canada’s Max Crepeau.
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