Messi Argentina Bolivia Copa America 2021Getty Images

Messi shines after breaking Argentina appearance record in Copa America

Lionel Messi has broken Argentina's record for most national team caps in style, scoring twice and delivering an assist in the first half against Bolivia after taking the field for the 148th time in his career.

The winger surpassed Javier Mascherano with his Monday appearance in the Copa America group stage. He also reached 75 goals with the Albiceleste.

Argentina topped Group A with the eventual 4-1 victory and will face Ecuador in the quarter-final.

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What has happened?

Messi played the role of distributor and scorer brilliantly in the first half on Monday.

He sent Alejandro  "Papu" Gomez through with a dinked pass for the opener before netting from the spot and chipping goalkeeper Carlos Lampe in transition.

As a result, Argentina entered the break up by three goals. They went on to win 4-1.

How have people reacted to Messi's performance?

Further reading

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