One for the file books (AFP Photo)
Lionel Messi was in elegant type in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Ecuador as he assisted two earlier than including a purpose of his personal through a shocking free-kick within the damage time.
Lionel Messi was at his greatest as Argentina confronted Ecuador within the quarterfinals of the continuing Copa America 2021 on Saturday evening in Brazil. The maestro assisted two targets to present his crew a 2-0 lead earlier than discovering the again of the online within the damage time changing a direct free-kick – his 58th of skilled profession that additionally moved him one previous his nice rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
After establishing teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martinez, Messi capped of a memorable particular person efficiency when he put the ball previous Ecuador goalkeeper cleverly after recognizing him soar off the road and directing the ball to the far publish.
The scoreline might counsel it was a sail for Argentina however as Messi identified after the match, it was precise reverse. “The reality is it was a really powerful match. We knew the issue of taking part in Ecuador, who work exhausting with gamers who’re quick, bodily robust, younger,” stated Messi.
“It was a battle until we managed the (second) goal,” he added.
Messi was the speak of the match however he stated the purpose for him is to win the title. “I all the time say it: particular person [moments] are secondary, we’re right here for one thing else,” Messi said. “I want to congratulate the group for the work they are doing – we have been away from our families for many days.”
Argentina subsequent face Colombia within the semifinal on Tuesday whereas 24 hours earlier than, host Brazil tackle Peru within the first semifinal.
Read all of the Latest News, Breaking News and Coronavirus News right here
