Argentina national team forward Lionel Messi has commented on his country's qualification for the 2024 Copa America final.
Today, July 10, the Argentines beat the Canadian national team 2-0 in the semifinals. Messi scored a goal in the match.
"It has been a very difficult Copa America, with very bad pitches, very high temperatures and very strong teams," Messi said in his post-match interview.
The 37-year-old captain acknowledged the challenges his team faced throughout the tournament, which was played in difficult conditions at all venues across the United States.
"The heat and the state of the pitches made it difficult for us to play our game, but the team showed a lot of character to reach the final," Messi continued. "We knew it wouldn't be easy, but the players put in a huge effort to get here."
Messi's semi-final goal was his fourth of the tournament, underlining his continued importance to the Argentina team despite his advanced age. The Barcelona legend remains the talisman of his national team as they look to win their first Copa America title since 4.
"We are one step away now, but we know that the final will be another difficult test," Messi warned. "Our opponent, whether it is Uruguay or Colombia, will be a formidable opponent who will make us work hard for the trophy."
The veteran forward was quick to deflect the praise away from himself, instead highlighting the collective effort of his teammates in navigating the difficult conditions and challenges posed by their opponents.
"It's not about me, it's about the whole team," Messi insisted. "We've faced adversity throughout the tournament, but the players have shown extraordinary unity and determination to get to this point."
As Argentina prepare for the final, Messi will be driven by a burning desire to finally win an elusive international title with his national team. After the heartbreak of losing the 2014 World Cup final, the 37-year-old is desperate to cap his illustrious career by leading his country to Copa América glory.
"We are so close now, but we can't rush," Messi warned. "We still have one more hurdle to overcome, and we will give everything we have to bring the trophy home."
