Lionel Messi, the 37-year-old football legend, may have seen a decline in his physical stamina and shooting accuracy, but his offensive instincts, midfield organization, and free-kick skills remain top-notch. Although his performance in the Copa America doesn’t match his peak years, he remains an indispensable player for the Argentine national team.
In the Copa America, Messi contributed one goal and one assist in five matches. His role in the team has always been consistent, primarily focusing on midfield organization and positioning for shots. Whether partnering with Di María on the wings or linking up with Álvarez and Lautaro, Messi’s organizational skills make his teammates comfortable. His assist record is particularly notable, consistently standing out whether in the national team or club play.
However, Messi’s shooting accuracy has indeed declined. His reactions and feel for adjusting shooting angles are not as precise as before, partly due to not always being in optimal shooting positions. For instance, in matches against Canada and Chile, several of Messi’s shots missed the target, something almost unimaginable in his younger days.
Despite this, Messi’s free-kicks remain a significant threat. His organizational skills and timing in attacks are still outstanding, even among younger players. Messi’s free-kick technique remains a crucial weapon for his team.
In the Copa America final, Messi played for 66 minutes, making 3 successful dribbles, 43 touches, and 28 successful passes, with one shot on target. Despite an ankle injury, Messi persevered until the injury worsened, forcing him to leave the field.
Messi’s perseverance and determination are admirable. At halftime, his ankle was so swollen that he could hardly put on his shoes, yet he chose to continue playing. This iron willpower allows him to contribute significantly even in top-tier tournaments. Ultimately, Argentina’s collective effort led them to win the Copa America.
Messi’s career is filled with glorious achievements. He led Barcelona to the Dream Team era and guided Argentina to three consecutive major tournament victories. His collective and individual honors have reached historical peaks, with 8 Ballon d’Or and 8 FIFA World Player awards, making him the unparalleled GOAT (Greatest of All Time).
However, with age and injuries, Messi’s form has indeed declined. His performance in the Copa America, while still impressive, doesn’t match his peak years. Messi’s stamina and speed have decreased, reducing his breakthrough ability in matches. Nevertheless, Messi continues to demonstrate his organizational skills and control over the game.
Messi’s injury in the Copa America final brought him to tears on the bench. This moment, filled with pain and frustration over not being able to help the team further, was heart-wrenching. Messi’s career is nearing its end, but he still contributes his all to the team.
Ultimately, Argentina won the Copa America thanks to Lautaro’s last-minute goal. Messi’s career has once again reached a glorious moment. Although he is no longer young, Messi remains one of the greatest footballers in history.