Argentina Win First Major Title In 28 Years

Copa America Ends Messi's International Trophy Drought

Albiceleste Claim Continental Crown With 1-0 Victory Over Brazil

Argentina won their first major title in 28 years on Saturday as Lionel Messi finally won his first medal in a blue-and-white shirt when an Angel Di Maria goal gave them a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the Copa America final at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

The victory was Argentina's 15th Copa America title, moving them one ahead of Uruguay as the most successful nation in the tournament's history.

Messi, who had lost four major finals with Argentina, was named man of the match after a performance that was both inspired and inspiring.

He had a hand in Argentina's goal, playing a superb pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who crossed for Di Maria to score the only goal of the game in the 22nd minute.

Brazil, who were seeking to win the Copa America for the first time since 2019, were largely disappointing and failed to create many clear-cut chances.

The victory was a huge relief for Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who had been under pressure after a poor run of form in the lead-up to the tournament.

It was also a special moment for Messi, who had been criticized for not winning a major trophy with Argentina.

The 34-year-old, who is widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time, had previously lost the 2014 World Cup final and three Copa America finals.

This victory will go some way to silencing his critics and will be a huge boost to Argentina's chances of winning the World Cup in Qatar next year.