The Estádio do Maracanã in Rio will play host to the 47th edition of the Copa America. Brazil are looking to claim their sixth title in ten editions after winning the last edition in 2019 at this same venue, via a 3-1 win over Peru.
Given the venue of this clash and the fact that they had one day less of rest, Argentina have it all to do against the hosts, at least on paper.
A win for Argentina will see them end a barren run of 28 years without a major trophy. It would also help the course of Lionel Messi, with the lack of a major trophy with his side being the only real ‘blemish’ on his brilliant career so far.
Messi has been brilliant in this competition so far with four goals and five assists to his name. He is likely to win the Golden Boot and also the player of the tournament, regardless of the result in the final.
Brazil are big favorites to win but Argentina cause a major upset on ‘enemy’ territory?
Can Argentina end their drought?
Lionel Messi finally has the chance to bring the ‘curse’ with Argentina to an end as he continues to seek his first major country with his national side.
Messi has won all trophies possible with Barcelona, including 10 La Liga titles and an equally impressive four Champions League triumphs. However, the final piece to complete his puzzle is one major trophy with Argentina.
Till date, La Pulga can only boast of an Olympics Gold medal back in 2008 as his only honour with Argentina. Given it’s an age-group competition, many have failed to regard that as a major trophy.
It doesn’t get any better for the out-of-contract Barcelona star that Brazil are fired up to deny him an international trophy.
“We’ll try to stop him achieving this objective,” said Brazil defender Marquinhos ahead of the crunch final.
In only a few hours from now, we’ll get to see who reigns supreme on the continent.
