ESPN.com · Jul 11, 2021
Messi, Argentina win Copa America over Brazil
Argentina defeated Brazil to win the Copa America, its first major title since 1993 and the first major international crown for captain Lionel Messi.
The win at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium adds an international accolade to Messi's CV, after having won a numerous trophies at club level with Barcelona.
It was an entertaining but hard fought match on both sides as Messi squared off against former Barca teammate Neymar, who was fouled repeatedly throughout the night.
Angel Di Maria gave Argentina the lead and eventual game-winner in the 22nd minute when he pounced on Rodan Lodi's errant clearance and looped the ball over Ederson for the goal.