The 2021 Copa América in Brazil saw Lionel Messi win his first major international trophy with Argentina, defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final and ending a 28-year drought.
Pandemic Tournament
Originally scheduled for 2020, the tournament was postponed one year due to COVID-19. It was moved from Argentina and Colombia to Brazil weeks before kickoff due to civil unrest and pandemic surges.
The decision to host in Brazil (then experiencing high COVID deaths) was controversial. Matches were played in empty stadiums with strict health protocols.
Messi’s Quest
Lionel Messi, age 34, entered the tournament having lost four Copa América finals (2007, 2015, 2016 twice) and the 2014 World Cup final. The pressure to win with Argentina was immense.
Messi scored four goals and provided five assists, winning the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament. His leadership elevated Argentina’s young squad.
Final: Argentina vs. Brazil
The July 10, 2021 final at the Maracanã (Rio de Janeiro) was Messi’s fifth Copa América final. Ángel Di María scored the only goal in the 22nd minute, a lob over Ederson.
Argentina’s defense, led by Emiliano Martínez and Nicolás Otamendi, shut down Brazil’s attack (Neymar held scoreless). The 1-0 victory was Argentina’s first major trophy since 1993.
Emotional Celebration
Messi’s tearful celebration with teammates became an iconic image. He lifted the trophy, ending personal and national heartbreak. #Messi2021 trended globally.
The victory validated Messi’s greatness beyond club success (Barcelona) and set the stage for his 2022 World Cup triumph.
Neymar’s Disappointment
Neymar cried after the final, consoled by Messi. The loss extended Brazil’s Copa América drought to 14 years (last won 2007, 2019 excluded as guest nation win).
The Messi-Neymar moment symbolized mutual respect between rivals and former Barcelona teammates.
Argentina’s Young Core
The tournament showcased Argentina’s next generation: Lautaro Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero, and Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez (goalkeeper). Their chemistry with Messi was crucial.
Dibu Martínez emerged as a hero, making key saves and later winning the 2022 World Cup Golden Glove.
Brazil’s Home Disappointment
Brazil, the favorites and hosts, suffered a shock defeat. Manager Tite faced criticism for conservative tactics and failing to unlock Argentina’s defense.
Neymar’s inability to deliver a major trophy for Brazil (2016 Olympics excluded) remained a career gap.
Guest Nations
Qatar and Australia were invited as guest nations (CONMEBOL tradition) but underperformed. Qatar, preparing for the 2022 World Cup, gained competitive experience.
Pandemic Challenges
Players and staff tested positive for COVID-19 throughout the tournament. Venezuela fielded a weakened squad due to outbreaks, losing 3-0 to Brazil.
The empty stadiums reduced atmosphere, but TV viewership remained high across Latin America.
Cultural Impact
#CopaAmerica2021 represented Messi’s redemption arc, silencing critics who questioned his international success. The trophy was a turning point in his legacy.
For Argentina, the victory ended decades of underachievement and began a new golden era (culminating in the 2022 World Cup).
Legacy
The 2021 Copa América is remembered as Messi’s tournament—his first senior international title after four finals losses. The victory set the stage for his World Cup triumph 18 months later.