Messi finally wins Copa America with Argentina
Messi ends wait for major international title
Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final
Lionel Messi finally ticked the last empty box in his glittering soccer career on Saturday night leading Argentina past host Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
The victory, which secured Argentina's first major title in 28 years, was all the more special for Messi as it came against arch-rivals Brazil in their own backyard.
The diminutive forward, who had been criticized for his lack of success with Argentina, was in tears after the final whistle as he celebrated with his teammates.
"This is a dream come true," said Messi. "I've always wanted to win a trophy with Argentina, and now I've finally done it."
The victory was also a major triumph for Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who had only been in charge of the team for a year.
"This is an incredible feeling," said Scaloni. "We've worked so hard for this, and now we've finally achieved our goal."
Argentina will now turn their attention to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they will be hoping to win their first title since 1986.
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