'These are the last battles...': Lionel Messi hints MAJOR retirement plan after Argentina vs Canada

Argentina effectively maintained their Copa America title with a 2-0 triumph over Canada in the semi-final game in an exciting exhibition of talent and will. With a stunning goal in the 22nd minute, Julián Álvarez started the fierce struggle. With a brilliant strike in the 51st minute, the great Lionel Messi once more demonstrated his extraordinary talent, therefore strengthening Argentina's lead. Notwithstanding Canada's best attempts, Argentina's great possession and effective passing finally guaranteed their dominating performance. Played at MetLife Stadium, the game will definitely be regarded as a masterclass in football ability as the defending champions will play another Copa America final.

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Fans react to Lionel Messi’s powerful performance against Canada in the Copa America 2024

Messi scored his team's second goal in the 2024 Copa America semi-final match against Canada, contributing to a 2-0 victory. Playing in his fourth match at the age of 37, he has finally ended his goal drought in the 2024 edition of the Copa America. After the match was over, the Argentine captain hinted that this was one of the last periods he would be with the squad and boldly claimed to make the most of the moments while enjoying them. According to DSports Radio, Messi said: 

“Yes, I am aware that these are the last battles… I am enjoying them to the fullest”.

“It’s not easy to be in a final again, we need to enjoy, enjoy every moment”,

After winning Finalasima and the FIFA World Cup in 2022, the Argentine national team is aiming for a hat trick in the past three years, starting with a repeat Copa America title which they will be defending after a win against Brazil in 2021. Due to the support of teammates like Emi Martinez and Lautaro Martine, the Messi-led team has been able to win the majority of their matches thus far in the competition.

The Inter Miami forward took advantage of a feed from Enzo Fernandez in the 51st minute, delicately directing the ball past the goalie.

For his country, Messi has scored 109 goals, including 14 in Copa America history. Earlier in the competition, against Canada, he scored and also supplied an assist.