Argentina's legendary player Lionel Messi won his third consecutive international trophy as Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 in Copa America 2024 final on July 14 at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami. Messi faced a major setback as he left the field crying with an ankle injury. But Lautaro Martinez sneaked a goal in extra time to lift the spirits of a limping Messi. It turned out to be Messi's 45th career trophy including both club and country. The 37-year-old Argentine broke Brazil's Dani Alves' record. Alves won 44 trophies in his career.
For Argentina, Messi has won four major titles in the last three years. Despite a loss against Saudi Arabia, Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022. Argentina won back-to-back Copa America whereas the fourth win was in Finalissima.
Left-footed legends’s all titles
Messi's 39 out of 45 titles have been at club level. He won 12 league titles, 10 with Barcelona and two with PSG. He won the UEFA Champions League four times for Barcelona. He won 15 domestic cups for Barcelona and one each for PSG and his current club Inter Miami.
He has won three UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup each. Early in his career, he won the Under-17 World Cup 2005, Olympic Games 2008. Copa America 2021, Finalissima 2022. However, his biggest achievement is winning FIFA World Cup 2022 against France on penalties.
Individual achievements
Messi's individual achievements include eight Ballon d'Ors, most by any player and six European Golden Boots. The young boy from Rosario who earned the title of ‘GOAT’ has 838 goals and 374 assists in 1,068 appearances at senior level.
After Martinez’s extra-time winner, Messi tried to join in the celebrations. He limped towards the team huddle after the title win as well.
No plans to retire
While Angel Di Maria hanged his boots with a Copa America title win, Messi is yet to reveal his plans. He intends to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
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