July 11, 2021: Lionel Messi has shown his kind side after a picture of himself consoling his former Barcelona teammate Neymar was revealed shortly after the Copa America final.
Messi’s Argentina beat rivals Brazil 1-0. Brazil silenced Peru before the final, Argentina saw off Colombia. However, it was Lionel Scaloni’s men who eventually emerged as continental champions, with Angel Di Maria’s first-half goal making all the difference. The title was Argentina’s first in 28 years and meant everything to Messi, who was desperate to end his international curse.
The last whistle at the historic Marcana Stadium saw Neymar break down in tears before Messi went to offer his condolences. Earlier, before the kick-off, both the players were awarded the ‘Player of the Tournament’ award. “It’s not possible to pick just one (best) player because there are two of them in this tournament,” said a statement from CONMEBOL’s technical study group, they said that the two have played an influential role in their respective teams.
Both Messi and Neymar turned out together at Barca for four years before the latter moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
Earlier, TUKO.co.ke reported how Neymar backed Aregentina to beat Columbia to qualify for for the Copa America. At the time, the 29-year-old said he hoped to compete with Lionel Messi for the coveted prize. “I want Argentina, I’m encouraging them. I have friends there and Brazil will win the final,” he announced.
Stay tuned to BaaghiTV for latest news and Updates!
