Argentina national team forward Lionel Messi commented on his goal in the 2024 Copa America semi-final against Canada. The match ended 2-0.

"I told Enzo that I didn't want to take the ball from him, but I saw the goalkeeper on the ground, the ball was coming slowly and I deflected it slightly," Messi said in his post-match interview.

The 37-year-old captain's goal was crucial in securing Argentina's place in the final of the prestigious South American tournament. Despite his advanced age, Messi continues to demonstrate his clinical finishing ability and game-changing quality.

"It wasn't the prettiest goal, but it was important for the team," Messi continued. "We knew Canada would be a tough opponent, so getting the goal early in the game really steadied us and allowed us to control the game."

In the current Copa América, Messi has now made four appearances, scoring one goal and providing one assist. Notably, the veteran forward failed to find the back of the net in the group stage – the first time in his illustrious career that he has failed to score in the opening rounds of the competition.

"I'm not worried about the goal drought in the group stage," Messi insisted. "The most important thing is that the team performs and we progress in the tournament."

Argentina's defensive solidity has been a key factor in their run to the final, with the team yet to concede a goal in the round of 16. Messi was quick to praise the contributions of his teammates at the other end of the pitch.

"The whole team worked incredibly hard, not just in attack but also in defence," Messi said. "Our defensive organisation was excellent, which gave us a solid platform on which we can build."

As Argentina prepare for the final, Messi will be eager to add another Copa America title to his trophy cabinet. The veteran forward has experienced both triumph and heartbreak with his national team, and he is determined to finally win the elusive international trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career.

"We are so close now, but we can't rush," Messi warned. "We still have one game to play and we will give everything we have to bring the Copa América home."