
When Lionel Messi, already a regular starter for the mighty Barcelona, made his international bow in 2005 as an 18-year-old for a powerful Argentina side he surely never imagined it would take him 16 years to finally claim a trophy with his country. สมัครสล็อตjoker
But the six time Ballon d'Or winner had to suffer numerous disappointments, including losing four finals, before leading his country to a 1-0 victory over "eternal rivals" Brazil in the Copa America final at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana stadium on Saturday.
Despite a glittering career that has seen him help Barcelona to win the Champions League four times, La Liga 10 times and the Copa Del Rey seven times, Messi's hopes of matching that with international success were repeatedly frustrated.
In truth he wasn't as inspired in the final as throughout the tournament, even slipping over when clean through two minutes from time and facing Brazil's goalkeeper Ederson with a chance to finish the match.But the way his teammates threw him into the air after the final whistle showed how important and appreciated he is within the Argentina camp.
"It was my dream. It was what I wanted most in the world," said Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez following the triumph.
"We gave it to Messi, who deserved it the most."
Three times previously -- in 2007, 2015 and 2016 -- his Argentina lost in the final at the Copa while the South Americans were also defeated 1-0 by Germany in the 2014 World Cup final at the Maracana.
History would not repeat itself this time around as Messi not only inspired his side but also finished the tournament as top goalscorer and with the most assists.
He was named player of the tournament, during which Messi equalled and then broke Javier Mascerano's record of 147 caps for Argentina, setting a new mark of 151 on Saturday.
His four goals during the competition took him to 76 for his country, just one off all-time South American mark set by Pele for Brazil.