Argentina star Lionel Messi became the most-capped player in Copa America history on Thursday, making his 35th appearance in the tournament’s opening match against Canada.
The 36-year-old had been tied with Chilean goalkeeper Sergio Livingstone (34 caps) since the 2021 Copa America final in Brazil, where Argentina emerged victorious.
Messi’s appearances span seven editions of the Copa, starting with the 2007 tournament in Venezuela.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner could break more records this year — he needs four goals to match the all-time scoring record of 17 goals, held by compatriot Norberto Mendez and Brazil’s Zizinho.
If Argentina wins the tournament, Messi would also become the first captain to secure back-to-back Copa America titles.
