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What's the story?
Argentine talismanic forward, Lionel Messi, has downplayed the chances of his nation to claim the Copa America 2019 title.
In case you didn't know...
Following their Copa America triumph in 1993, La Albiceleste have consistently failed to leave their mark in International competitions. Although, expectations were sky-high when the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Lionel Messi, led the South American giants in the World Cup 2014 in Brazil. Argentina lost the final to Germany as substitute Mario Gotze scored the winning goal late into the extra time.
Following the heart-wrenching defeat in the 2014 World Cup final, Lionel Messi and co. lost two consecutive Copa America finals to Chile in 2015 and 2016, respectively.
Last year, France, who went on to win the World Cup in Russia, knocked out Argentina in the quarterfinals. Unsure of whether he'd take part in the Qatar World Cup, the Barcelona captain probably has his final shot on an International trophy this year; though, the 31-year-old doesn't seem too optimistic about it.
The heart of the matter
Talking with TV channel TyC Sports, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said:
“We are not candidates like other times,”
“We will go with the same dreams and excitement as always, but the reality is that Argentina is going through a process of change.”
Argentina will face Colombia, Paraguay and Qatar in Group B of the tournament.
Lionel Messi has had an ornamented career both on individual and on the club level. However, the little magician has failed to pin an International trophy to his name. Considering he's 31 years old already, it wouldn't be false to say that this might be his last shot to achieve something for his nation - something he has failed to do in the past years of his exceptional career.
What's next?
Lionel Messi and co. will kickstart their tournament on 16th of June as they face Colombia in the first group stage fixture.
