Messi Sets Record as Most Capped Player in Copa America History

Lionel Messi became the most-capped player in Copa America history on Thursday, marking his 35th appearance during Argentina’s opening match against Canada.

The 36-year-old Argentine star surpassed the previous record of 34 caps held by Chilean goalkeeper Sergio Livingstone. Messi had equaled Livingstone’s record during the final of the 2021 Copa America in Brazil, where Argentina emerged victorious.

Messi’s Copa America career spans seven editions of the tournament, beginning with the 2007 competition in Venezuela. As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, he has the opportunity to break additional records this year. He needs four more goals to tie with Norberto Mendez of Argentina and Zizinho of Brazil, both of whom hold the record for most goals scored in Copa America history with 17 goals.

If Argentina wins the tournament, Messi would also become the first captain to secure consecutive Copa America titles.