MLS & Copa America rival of Lionel Messi reacts to ‘insane’ challenge of facing Inter Miami & Argentina GOAT

Crepeau plies his club trade for the Portland Timbers, who are not currently on Inter Miami’s schedule for 2024. The 30-year-old shot-stopper has, however, crossed paths with Messi on international duty – in the opening game of a Copa event that is taking place in the U.S.

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He was beaten on two occasions in that contest, as World Cup winners and defending Copa champions Argentina eased their way to a 2-0 win. Messi did not find the target himself, but was involved in both of the Albiceleste’s goals as Jesse Marsch’s side found it impossible to contain the obvious threat that he poses.

Crepeau has said of lining up against eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi: “When you play Argentina, you know you’ll have some important actions, and you know Messi and [Angel] Di Maria are there. They have some world-class players, but it’s about being big in certain moments. I don’t get fazed by [Messi] during the game, but yes, it’s something insane. With this group, we know we have the quality to compete, we’ve come a long way, and now it’s about getting the pieces together.”

Canada are looking to take positives from their performance against Argentina, which saw them hold their own for long periods, and they will be back in Group A action at the 2024 Copa America when facing Peru on Tuesday.