Messi Scores Stunning Free Kick as He Dazzles Against Ecuador to Send Argentina to Copa America Semis

• Lionel Messi scored a sensational free-kick goal helping Argentina defeat Ecuador to cruise to the Copa America semis
• The 34-year-old also provided two assists on the night in their 3-0 win on Saturday, to set up a mouthwatering clash with Colombia in the last four
• Messi’s teammates applauded the captain, with Lautaro Martinez saying the world saw how Messi made the difference

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Argentina cruised to this year’s Copa America semis in spectacular fashion following a convincing 3-0 win over Ecuador in the quarterfinal all thanks to a Lionel Messi masterclass.

The 34-year-old who recently went out of contract with Barcelona was involved in all three goals for his side to court praise and admiration from his teammates.

He had earlier assisted the two goals, with one of them coming when he provided the no-look pass in a man-of-the-match effort.

Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martinez were both on the scoresheet in the 40th and 84th minute respectively with Messi playing a central role in the goals.

The win saw Argentina set up a mouthwatering semi-final meeting with Colombia, with Brazil who are also through to the last four set to face Peru.

Meanwhile, it was Messi's performance against Ecuador that stole the headlines, with fans and his teammates applauding him for his role in the win.

After the game, teammate Nicolas Gonzalez said via GOAL:

"Messi surprises us day by day, he gets stronger and stronger and infects us all. He gives us confidence and joy. You have to continue down this path and enjoy it."

Inter forward Lautaro Martinez added:

"We all follow Messi's leadership. Today we saw again how he makes a difference and we are all accompanying him."

Messi reacts.

"I always say it: individual [moments] are secondary, we are here for something else," he said. "I want to congratulate the group for the work they are doing - we have been away from our families for many days."

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