'IMAGINE IF THIS WAS CR7!': Lionel Messi misses empty net in Argentina vs Canada Copa America opener

In the Copa America 2024 opener, Argentina secured a strong 2-0 victory over Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the 49th minute, followed by a goal from Lautaro Martinez in the 88th minute. Argentina demonstrated dominance with 19 shots and 65% possession, while Canada managed 10 shots with 35% possession. The win puts Argentina at the top of Group A, setting a positive tone for their campaign in the tournament.

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Lionel Messi missed an empty net against Canada in Argentina’s Copa America 2024 opener 

Argentina's Copa America title defence began with a 2-0 win over Canada, thanks to Lionel Messi's precise through ball that helped in set up Julián Álvarez's goal in the 49th minute and then a proper assist to Lautaro Martínez's goal in the 88th minute. 

Despite Lionel Messi's exceptional performance against Canada, he faced a moment of disappointment when he missed one of the worst goals of his career after receiving a throw ball from the goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez in the 64th minute. Running towards the goal, Messi attempted to score into an empty net but failed twice. The Canadian defence intensified the pressure on the Argentine captain, resulting in an unexpected missed opportunity. Another Messi miss came during the 78th minute where he was 1v1 with the GK but failed to convert the chance and was shattered on the ground after his  miss.

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Argentina is aiming for their third major trophy in a row, following wins in the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup.

With the South American title staged in the United States for the second time, Messi broke the Copa America record with his 35th participation, surpassing Chile's Sergio Livingstone, who participated from 1941 to 1953. Messi also added to his tournament record with his 18th assist.

As Messi approaches his 37th birthday on Monday, he had an important role in the first goal. After a throw-in, he directed a pass past the defence to Alexis MacAllister. The midfielder passed to Álvarez, who collided with goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau approximately 8 yards from goal. Álvarez scored his eighth goal in 32 international matches.

Argentina will now be seen in action against Chile on Wednesday, June 26, 2024.