Lionel Messi calls out 'very bad surfaces' at Copa America as he hails Argentina's 'amazing' run to 2024 final with nod to squad's 'older guys'

Argentina will have an opportunity to defend their Copa America crown on Sunday evening after they emerged triumphant against Canada at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, courtesy of goals from Julian Alvarez and Messi. The 37-year-old superstar was elated with the performance of the Albiceleste but was also left complaining about the quality of the pitches in the United States.

"To be honest, it has been a difficult tournament," Messi told reporters.

"The level has been as equal as ever, very bad surfaces, high temperatures that make it hard to play, very tough rivals. So the fact we made it and we are here again playing a final is something to enjoy and highlight."

Despite the hurdles, Messi expressed his admiration for Argentina's performance, particularly praising the contributions of the team's veteran players like Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi.

"What this team has done, what the Argentina national team has done, because after this everyone gives more importance to all the finals that me and the 'older guys' have played," Messi said.

"Me, Fide [Angel Di María], Ota [Nicolás Otamendi], and that Argentina can play another final is amazing."

Messi scored his 14th goal in Copa America, tying with Peru's Paolo Guerrero and Chile's Eduardo Vargas, and is now just three goals shy of the tournament's all-time record held jointly by Norberto Mendez and Zizinho.

Argentina are on the verge of achieving another historic feat. They previously won the Copa America in 2021 and then lifted the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022. Winning a third successive major trophy would mirror Spain, who won the Euros in 2008 and 2012 and the World Cup in 2010. Messi and Co will face the winners of the second semifinal between Uruguay and Colombia on Sunday at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.