Argentina football legend Lionel Messi added another feather to his illustrious cap by winning the Copa America for the second time, as La Albiceleste defeated Colombia 1-0 in the final on Monday morning.
Journey from a young Rosario boy to a GOAT
The Copa America title victory elevated Messi to a historic milestone: 45 trophies with both club and country, surpassing the previous record held by Brazil’s Dani Alves. The journey from a young boy in Rosario to the one of the all time greats in football history has been an astonishing one.
Messi, who was sometimes criticised for his lack of international honours, has now won four big titles with Argentina in three years: one World Cup, two Copa Americas, and a Finalissima from 2021 to 2024.
Also read: Young tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz wins Wimbledon 2024 title; defeats Djokovic in straight sets
Messi’s spectacular club career has included four Champions League trophies and 10 La Liga crowns with Barcelona. Individually, he has won eight Ballon d’Ors and six European Golden Boots. Overall, Messi has an incredible 1,212 goals and assists in 1,068 games, with 838 goals and 374 assists.
Lionel Messi has won 45 titles
Messi has won 39 of his 45 titles at the club level. Most of these victories occurred during his 17-year stint with Barcelona. His achievements include 12 league titles (10 with Barcelona and two with PSG), four UEFA Champions Leagues (all with Barcelona), and 17 domestic cups (15 with Barcelona and one each with PSG and Inter Miami).
In addition, he has won three UEFA Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups. Messi’s achievements for Argentina include the 2005 U-17 World Cup, the 2008 Olympic Games, the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, and, most notably, the 2022 World Cup, in which Argentina defeated France in the final.
Also read: ‘If you are fit, play all three formats’: Gautam Gambhir’s message to Team India
Messi’s path to glory was not without obstacles in the Copa America final versus Colombia. Despite being replaced in the 64th minute due to a severe ankle injury, Messi’s presence and leadership were felt throughout the game. Argentina, exhibiting their resilience, forced the game into overtime.
Lautaro Martinez’s brilliant play secured the victory in the 112th minute, allowing Messi to celebrate with his teammates and greet the loving Argentina fans in the stands. Lionel Messi’s career continues to demonstrate his exceptional talent, tenacity, and enthusiasm for the game, cementing his place as a true football great.
