Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentina forward, made history on Thursday by becoming the most capped player in Copa America history. Messi achieved this milestone by appearing in his 35th match during the tournament’s opening game against Canada.
The 36-year-old had previously shared the record of 34 caps with Chilean goalkeeper Sergio Livingstone, a record that had stood since Messi’s appearance in the 2021 Copa America final in Brazil, where Argentina emerged victorious.
Messi’s journey in the Copa America began in the 2007 tournament in Venezuela, and his appearances now span seven editions. With eight Ballon d’Or awards to his name, Messi is poised to set even more records in this year’s competition. He is just four goals shy of equalling the all-time Copa America scoring record, currently held by Norberto Mendez of Argentina and Zizinho of Brazil, both of whom scored 17 goals.
Additionally, if Argentina secures another tournament victory, Messi would make history as the first captain to win back-to-back Copa America titles.
