Lionel Messi, the legendary footballer, is set to make a remarkable comeback despite a leg injury as he gears up to play in Argentina’s Copa America semifinal clash against Canada on Tuesday night.
The Argentine player has been struggling with a right leg issue since the victory over Chile in the group stage on June 25. Although he sat out the final match of the first round, Messi returned to the field and completed the full game during the quarterfinal win against Ecuador last Thursday.
Coach Lionel Scaloni of Albiceleste confirmed Messi’s participation, stating, ‘Leo is good. He will be playing tomorrow,’ during a press conference held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
At 37 years old, Messi boasts an impressive record of 13 Copa America goals, trailing just four behind the shared record held by Argentina’s Norberto Méndez and Brazil’s Zizinho. However, he has yet to find the back of the net in this year’s tournament.
Scaloni expressed confidence in Messi’s readiness to compete, saying, ‘It’s an easy decision for me. It’s a fairly honest decision: I ask him how he feels. If he says ‘I’m not good,’ then he will play the last 30 minutes. When he’s available, he will play.’
Argentina, aiming for a record 16th Copa America title, previously defeated Canada 2-0 in the tournament opener on June 20, with Messi instrumental in setting up goals for Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez in the second half.
Reflecting on their previous encounter with Messi, Jesse Marsch, the Canadian coach appointed in May, acknowledged the challenge posed by the football maestro, stating, ‘We didn’t do well enough with Messi last match. He was able to run free at our goalkeeper too much. We all know he’s the greatest.’
