Messi’s Final Fling: Argentina Captain Relishes ‘Last Battles’
Lionel Messi has always been a student of the game, and it’s clear he’s savoring every moment of his time on the pitch. The Argentina captain’s 51st-minute goal in the Copa America semifinal win over Canada was a testament to his enduring greatness, and his words afterwards hinted at a deep appreciation for the journey.
"I’m living it like I lived it in the last Copa America, in the last World Cup… these are the last battles and I’m enjoying them to the maximum," Messi told TyC Sports after being adjudged Player of the Match. The 35-year-old superstar is undoubtedly relishing the opportunity to compete at the highest level, even if it’s unclear how much longer he’ll continue to don the Albiceleste jersey.
With Argentina set to bid farewell to veterans Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi after the tournament, Messi’s future remains shrouded in uncertainty. The player himself has yet to confirm whether he’ll stay on with the team for their title defense at the 2026 World Cup, a prospect that would send shockwaves through the football world.
But for now, Messi is focused on the present, and his team’s record-extending 31st appearance in a Copa America final is a testament to his enduring influence. The fact that Argentina have made it to the final despite the challenges they’ve faced in this tournament – "a difficult Copa, evenly matched, with very bad pitches, with high temperatures, very tough teams" – only adds to Messi’s satisfaction.
Coach Lionel Scaloni, too, is keen to keep Messi around for as long as possible. "We have to leave him alone, he knows that we will not be the ones to close the door on him. He can stay with us as long as he wants, even when he retires… Let him decide what he wants," Scaloni said.
As Argentina prepare to face the winner of the Uruguay-Columbia clash in the final on Sunday, one thing is clear: Messi’s "last battles" will be watched with rapt attention by fans around the world. Whether he’ll be back for more in 2026 remains to be seen, but for now, let’s simply appreciate the beauty of his game and the joy he derives from competing at the highest level.
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