Interesting similarities between Ronaldo's Euro 2016 and Messi's upcoming Copa America 2019

#3 Against all odds

It is a well-known fact that Portugal were by no means a favorite to win Euro 2016. They had to fight through their group against Hungary, Iceland, and Austria to get the draws and finish at third place.

After somehow getting through to the knockout stages, Portugal were still not the odds-on favorite to win against Croatia and Wales. However, they defied odds and proceeded to the finals. In the finals, the home nation France was the favorite, even more after Cristiano Ronaldo was helped off the pitch early. But, Portugal struck late into extra time to seal the deal. Champions, against all odds.

What about Argentina? After their dismal campaign in the World Cup, they will hardly be called the favorites to win. With a new coach and a new look team, Argentina will always be second favorites to Brazil, Uruguay, and even Chile and Colombia. To defy all odds and win a trophy is easier said than done, but it has been done before, hasn't it?

After all, what Argentina lacked in the World Cup was cohesion. They were over-dependent on Messi during the qualifiers, winning just one out of seven or eight games without him. But now, they have played a few under Scaloni, even against a rampant Brazil team. Argentina did not fall to a landslide victory against Brazil.

There is always a chance, always.