Argentina 1-0 Brazil: Lionel Messi's Argentina lift Copa America trophy

Angel Di Maria’s first-half strike secure Argentina to win their first major title since 1993; Lionel Messi fills in one of the biggest gaps in his decorated career

Lionel Messi’s long wait for a major trophy with Argentina is over after a 1-0 win against Brazil in the Copa America final

The 34-year-old, currently a free agent after his contract at Barcelona expired, fell to the floor at full-time in a sign of huge relief, while his former team-mate Neymar was in tears after he was unable to inspire Brazil to victory after Angel Di Maria’s first-half winner.

It was a huge hurdle crossed for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has been a beaten finalist on four separate occasions with Argentina – three times in the Copa America and once in the World Cup.

The match was decided by a goal midway through the first half from Di Maria, who lobbed Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson following a perfect Rodrigo De Paul pass.

Brazil were poor throughout the contest and struggled to test Emiliano Martinez at the other end. Everton forward Richarlison had Brazil’s best chance when he forced the Aston Villa ‘keeper into a save.

 

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