Messi's perseverance leads Argentina to historic titles

Lionel Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in August 2005, entering as a substitute against Hungary and being sent off after less than five minutes. After early disappointments, including a bench role in the 2006 World Cup and defeats in the 2014 final and two Copa América finals, Messi briefly retired from international play, citing a feeling of being a jinx.

He returned to the squad, but the team struggled at the 2018 World Cup, exiting without a knockout-stage goal. In 2018, former forward Lionel Scaloni was appointed head coach. Under Scaloni, Messi assumed a more vocal leadership role and the squad began to improve tactically.

Argentina finished third at the 2019 Copa América, but the performance was seen as a turning point. The team captured the Copa América title in 2021, defeated Italy in the 2022 Finalissima, and won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Subsequent successes include the 2024 Copa América victory and leading South America’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup.

"I like this Messi," Argentine winger Ángel Di María told the media after the 2019 tournament, noting the improved dynamic within the squad.

Messi’s continued commitment to the national side, despite earlier doubts, has been credited with helping Argentina achieve its most successful period in recent history.