Messi Beats Ronaldo, Sets Record for Most Goals and Assists in Major Tournaments

• Lionel Messi has set a new record for the most goal contributions in major tournaments after another brilliant outing
• The Inter Miami forward starred for Argentina as they began their Copa America title defense with a win against Canada
• La Albiceleste defeated Canada 2-0 with the five-time Ballon d’Or award winner assisting one goal for the title holders

Argentina kicked off their Copa America title defence in style after securing a 2-0 victory against Canada on June 20, with Lionel Messi setting another remarkable record in the process.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner cracked open Canada's stubborn defense with a sublime through pass to set up Julian Alvarez, who slotted in to give La Albiceleste the lead in the 47th minute.

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After setting up Argentina’s first goal, Messi entered the history books as the man with the most goal contributions in major international tournaments, with 26 goals and 28 assists.

The Argentina captain, who made his 35th appearance in the Copa America, per MARCA, has now surpassed legendary footballers like Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele with his 54th goal and assist in the World Cup and Copa America.

Messi is aiming to add another international trophy to his collection in what might be his last appearance in the Copa America for Argentina.

Messi sends message to fans

Meanwhile, Messi has sent a short message to Argentina fans following their first group win against Canada in the opening game of the 2024 Copa America, taking centre stage in the United States of America.

The multiple Ballon d’Or winner posted a short but direct message to the fans on his social media platforms. 'First step', his words were translated as reading, along with the Argentinian flag.

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Argentina's next game is against Chile on June 25, followed by a final group-stage match against Peru on June 29, with the team’s goal of finishing first in Group A and moving on to the knockout phase.

Messi becomes most-capped player

Sports Brief also reported that Messi has become the most-capped player in Copa America history, marking his 35th appearance in the tournament's opening match against Canada.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or award winner had previously shared this record with Chilean goalkeeper, Sergio Livingstone, since Argentina's 2021 Copa America finals victory.