Lionel Messi: Argentine Skipper slams pitches for Copa America no-show. He accepted that he has performed below expectations but says that the sub-par pitches have also played a role.
Lionel Messi led Argentina have reached the Semi Finals of the ongoing Copa America. La Albiceleste beat Venezuela 2-0 on Friday to set up a mouth-watering clash against hosts Brazil.
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Argentina started the tournament with a loss to Columbia. However, they have since gathered steam to force their way into the semi-finals. They will now be looking to win their next two matches and go home with the trophy. But for that to happen their skipper will have to turn his fortunes around.
These pitches ain’t loyal
Largely considered as the best footballer on the face of the planet, Messi has had a disappointing tournament. He has failed to score or assist under open play and his only goal was a penalty; A stark difference from the numbers he is usually associated with.
His failures are not lost on him though and the Argentine has accepted that his performances have been largely dismal.
“I am not having my best Copa America,” he told reporters at the final whistle in Rio according to Goal.
Messi then slammed the pitches in Brazil and claimed that the sub-par pitches contributed to his no-show in Brazil.
“In truth, the pitches are shameful. It is hard to control the ball and carry it. The ball looked like a rabbit; it goes all over the place with this pitch. All we can do is adapt. The pitches are awful. That doesn’t help keep possession, you need a second longer, it bounces poorly, you cannot lead. But we played a complete game and we were able to win.”
Always a Bridesmaid…
Messi has played in 4 finals with Argentina on the International stage. However, they have come out on the losing side on all 4 occasions. Messi had even retired back in 2016 out of frustration following another one of his failed pursuits for an international trophy but reversed his decision soon after.
The 5-time Ballon D’or winner now has another opportunity to win an International Trophy. He and his team are just two more matches away from finally going home champions.
