Copa America: Lionel Messi Wins First Major International Trophy With Argentina

 

Lionel Messi's career-long major international title-drought has ended as he led Argentina to win Copa America in a 1-0 win against Brazil in the final match. 

The Barcelona forward, who contributed four goals to the team, also was named the player of the tournament that ended the country's 28 years title-drought jinx in the competition. Neymar Jr. held back tears watching his team, who were the defending champions, lose to the trophy to Argentina. 

Angel di Maria gifted the team the winning goal, brilliantly lobbing de Paul's pass over Ederson in the 22nd minute. Messi had a glaring chance to make it a perfect finale by doubling the lead but missed the goal by inches. 

As Messi approaches the end of his career considering his age, winning major international title is important to put him in the class of his rivals such Cristiano Ronaldo who singlehandedly led Portugal to win Euro 2016.