Lionel Messi ended his wait for a first major international trophy as Argentina beat Brazil in the Copa America final in Rio’s Maracana stadium.
Messi, 34, fell to the ground in joy at the full-time whistle and was swiftly mobbed by his teammates, 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 scoring four goals in the tournament.
Angel di Maria scored the only goal with his superb lob, after taking down Rodrigo de Paul’s lofted pass.
Messi had a chance to seal the match but slipped with the goal at his mercy, in what would have been the perfect finale for the Argentine captain.
Defending champions Brazil were disappointing, with their only chances of note coming when Richarlison and Gabriel Barbosa forced saves from Emi Martinez.
In contrast to emotions, Messi’s opposite number 10 and former Barcelona teammate Neymar sank to his knees in tears at the final whistle, as his pursuit of international achievement continues, having missed Brazil’s 2019 Copa win through injury.
Watch the highlight below:
https://youtu.be/scK6MakFyVo
