Lionel Messi Scores Brace as Argentina Down Guatemala in Copa America Warm Up

• Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina wrapped up their preparations for the Copa America with a 4-1 friendly victory over Guatemala on Friday.
• The Inter Miami star grabbed an early equaliser and then dinked in Argentina's fourth as the world champions came from behind in Maryland
• La Albiceleste will launch the defence of their Copa America crown when they come up against Canada in Atlanta next Thursday

Lionel Messi shone brightly yet again, netting two goals and providing an assist in Argentina's dominant 4-1 win over Guatemala.

This international friendly at Commanders Field marked La Albiceleste's final preparation before the Copa América, with Messi's brilliance on full display.

The 36-year-old's first goal of the night, his 107th for Argentina, occurred in the 12th minute following a critical error by Guatemala's goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen.

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Hagen, who plays for the Columbus Crew, mishit a pass that fell directly to Messi's feet.

The Argentine phenom calmly finished from just outside the six-yard box, one of the easiest goals of his storied career, per Bleacher Report.

In the 77th minute, Messi showcased his exceptional talent and vision once more.

After receiving a precise pass from Ángel Di María, the Inter Miami captain delicately chipped the ball over the onrushing Hagen, securing Argentina's fourth and final goal of the evening.

This moment of brilliance reinforced Messi's status as one of football's greatest players as he coolly tucked away his 107th international goal, per GOAL.

What's next for Messi and Argentina?

As Argentina gear up for their Copa América opener against Canada at Atlanta United's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 20, all eyes will be on Messi.

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His stellar performance against Guatemala signals that he is poised to dominate once again, igniting hope and excitement among fans worldwide.

Martinez drops Messi's retirement hint

Sports Brief reported on Lisandro Martinez dropping Messi's retirement hint as the world champions prepare to defend their Copa America title in Miami.

The Manchester United defender claimed that none of his teammates thought it could be the final major tournament their captain could go to, and they felt relaxed.