With another disappointing exit at the Copa America, Lionel Messi is yet to win a major trophy in nine senior international tournaments. Amazing!
Argentina was knocked out in the semi-finals of the Copa America by Brazil, losing 2-0, with Lionel Messi failing to record a single goal or assist from open play throughout the tournament.
“They were not better than us. They found the net early, and the second goal came from a penalty they didn’t award,” Messi said after the game.
“The officiating was crazy. There were clear penalties, on Otamendi, on Kun (Aguero).
“He (the referee) was on their side; in every divided ball or dispute, he inclined the pitch their way.”
Messi was clearly angered by the officiating, but the case is usually different playing for Barcelona. The Argentine captain seems to possess god-like abilities playing for the Spanish club, and has even been considered the greatest of all time (GOAT) by many due to his many unrivalled performances.
Why is the story so different while representing his country?
You might think it unfair to focus on one man after a team consisting of several other players has failed. But Messi has been known for carrying his team along, making victories come easy for them. But it rarely happens in Argentina.
While still in the group stages, the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner blamed the pitch for his poor performances. And now, he’s blaming the officials after their exit. Something is just not right for Leo in an argentine shirt.
At 32, Messi’s chances of lifting a senior international trophy are now very slim. But will he finally break this jinx when Argentina co-host the Copa America in 2020?
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