Argentina, led by Lionel Messi and arguably the best football team in the world, is on an impressive run in the 2024 Copa America. Fresh off their victories in the delayed 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, the team looks poised to claim yet another title this year. Despite concerns over Lionel Messi’s fitness, the legendary forward has been instrumental in Argentina’s dominance. The team has won all three of their matches so far, maintaining a perfect record with three wins and zero goals conceded. With such formidable form, Argentina is solidifying its status as a powerhouse in international football, and fans are eagerly anticipating more spectacular performances as the tournament progresses.
The Rundown
Messi’s performances and injury woes
Messi is no longer the Messi of 2014, where he could comfortably play 60 games a season for club and country. The 2024 Messi is still supremely talented but is also 37 years old. He started the opening two games against Canada and Chile, grabbing an assist in the former and being a nightmare to defend against (as always) in both games. Unfortunately for him and the footballing world, he picked up an injury in his upper leg and was sidelined for the Peru game.
He is hopeful to return for Argentina’s next game vs. Ecuador on July 5th. Even in his stead, Argentina had the capabilities to dispatch Peru, with other talented players stepping up and Alejandro Garnacho stepping into the starting team. Against Ecuador, Argentina will probably have the quality to win, even without Messi, but when they progress and have to face either Uruguay or Brazil in the later rounds, he will be imperative.
From wonderkid to champion 👶
— 365Scores (@365Scores) June 16, 2024
18 years ago today, Messi announced himself on the World Cup stage with his 1st goal 💪
16 years later, he's holding the trophy 🏆 pic.twitter.com/zugLbBm7Ir
Lautaro Martinez is on fire
Lautaro Martinez’s journey from the 2022 World Cup disappointment to the top scorer in the 2024 Copa America is nothing short of magical. He’s scored four goals in three appearances, but he’s only started once. He’s averaging a goal every 30 minutes!
Having been benched in favor of Julian Alvarez during the World Cup and failing to score a single goal, Martinez has now found the net in all three group games of the Copa America. He led the line with authority in the third game, scoring twice against Peru and becoming the tournament’s top scorer. His impressive form provides coach Scaloni with plenty of options for the knockout rounds, as Martinez has scored nine goals in 13 Copa America career matches, on the back of a 27-goal season with Inter Milan.
Cristian Romero x Lisandro Martinez is an INCREDIBLE partnership
Argentina have not conceded a goal yet in the Copa America. These two are a massive reason why. They are incredible. Two pitbulls. Warriors who want to win every ball and instill fear into opposition strikers. They sniff out danger and crush it as soon as possible. They’re passionate and hungry. Both Premier League stars, Romero’s aerial ability is imperative whilst Lisandro’s progressing passing ranks amongst the best in the world. Their synergy and tenacity make them a nightmare for any opponent, embodying the relentless spirit of this Argentina team.
For the first time ever, Argentina will start with a CB pair of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/pNzFreH400
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) June 9, 2024
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
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