Lionel Messi continues to break records at the Copa America, taking a different approach from his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi has now made more appearances at the tournament (35) than anyone else and is the first Argentine to compete in seven Copa America events, debuting in 2007.
Messi expressed his gratitude and humility about his achievements.
“Happy to be able to continue being here, to be able to participate in one more official competition with the national team. I always say that I am not one to focus on this type of record, or any records, I am simply enjoying this Copa America. We will always try to give our best, sometimes playing better, sometimes playing worse, but always trying to give our best and fight every game as we have been doing,” Messi said.
Messi’s records come in contrast to Ronaldo’s more assertive stance on his achievements.
Ronaldo has said, “I don’t follow the records, the records follow me.”
Messi also commented on Argentina’s 2-0 win over Canada, marking a strong start to their title defense.
“The truth is that it is very important, because it is the first time since Lionel Scaloni has been here that we have started a competition winning and it gives you extra peace of mind. It is a tough group, now we face Chile. Although they have not yet played their first game. There are still two tough games left in the group and obviously starting with a win, settling in and adding three points gives a lot of peace of mind,” Messi said.
Argentina will face Chile next Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. A victory would secure their spot in the quarter-finals with one group stage game remaining against Peru.