Opposite to Cristiano Ronaldo! Lionel Messi responds to breaking more records at Copa America – with Argentina superstar taking different approach to eternal rival

The Argentine superstar has grown accustomed to rewriting the history books over the course of his remarkable career. As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, world champion and the most-decorated player in the history of the game, Messi is assured of a standing among the all-time greats.

He has further enhanced that legacy by posting more bests at the 2024 Copa America. Messi has, after starring in Argentina’s tournament opener against Canada, made more appearances at that competition (35) than anybody else. He has also become the first Argentine to grace seven Copa events – having made his bow at that continental tournament back in 2007.

While Ronaldo has responded to the history that he continues to make at 39 years of age by saying “I don’t follow the records, the records follow me”, Messi has favoured a more humble approach by telling reporters of his latest historic achievements: “Happy to be able to continue being here, to be able to participate in one more official competition with the national team. I always say that I am not one to focus on this type of record, or any records, I am simply enjoying this Copa America. We will always try to give our best, sometimes playing better, sometimes playing worse, but always trying to give our best and fight every game as we have been doing.”

Messi added on helping Argentina to begin their Copa title defence with a 2-0 win over Canada: “The truth is that it is very important, because it is the first time since [Lionel] Scaloni has been here that we have started a competition winning and it gives you extra peace of mind. It is a tough group, now we face Chile. Although they have not yet played their first game. There are still two tough games left in the group and obviously starting with a win, settling in and adding three points gives a lot of peace of mind.”

Argentina are set to face Chile next Tuesday, with that game taking place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey -the home of the New York Giants and Jets NFL franchises. Victory there would see the Albiceleste safely through to the quarter-finals with a game against Peru to spare.