Copa America: Lionel Messi Becomes Most Capped Player in History After Argentina vs Canada

• Argentina and Inter Miami captain, Lionel Messi, has broken the Copa America record of matches played, with 35 games so far
• The ex-Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar has also become the first Argentine to play in seven editions of the Copa
• The 36-year-old, who inspired Argentina to glory in 2022, will be hoping to help La Albiceleste retain the continental trophy

Lionel Messi has become the most-capped player in Copa America history, marking his 35th appearance in the tournament's opening match against Canada on Thursday, June 20.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner previously shared this record with Chilean goalkeeper, Sergio Livingstone, since the 2021 Copa America final in Brazil where Argentina claimed victory.

Messi's appearances span seven editions of the Copa America, beginning with the 2007 tournament in Venezuela.

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According to ESPN, the 36-year-old has also become the first player from Argentina to feature in seven editions of the tournament.

The Inter Miami superstar still has the opportunity to set additional records this year.

The legendary Barcelona forward is just four goals away from matching the all-time Copa America scoring record of 17, held jointly by Argentina's Norberto Mendez and Brazil's Zizinho.

Moreover, if La Albiceleste clinches the tournament this time around, Messi would become the first captain to lead his team to consecutive Copa America victories, per Fox Sports.

The veteran, who inspired Argentina to glory in 2022, will be hoping to help his nation retain the continental trophy.

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Meanwhile, as seen in a video shared on X by DSports, football fans gathered outside Argentina's team hotel and chanted 'Messi, Messi' as the players entered the premises.

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According to Sportico, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where Argentina's match against Canada match took place, has an artificial turf, which the 36-year-old reportedly expressed concern about when he came to Major League Soccer.

Due to fitness issues, Messi missed Miami's visit to the stadium last year, and his team was beaten 5-2. However, that result was not reflected this time around, with the world champions sealing a 2-0 victory over the Canucks.

Messi compares Argentina to Guardiola's Barcelona

Sports Brief previously reported on Messi comparing Argentina to Pep Guardiola's Barcelona after his national team became holders of three international trophies.

Under the Spaniard between 2008 and 2012, Barca became one of the greatest teams ever and the Inter Miami star believes his national side are nearing that level.