Lionel Messi had been to two Copa Americas before, in 2007 and 2011, and both were losing efforts for his home nation Argentina. La Albiceleste lost to perennial rival Brazil 3-0 in the 2007 final, while they lost a penalty shootout to also eventual 2011 champions Uruguay in the quarters. According to SkySports, Messi has the chance to accomplish this year what two of the greatest football players of all time had never done: win the Copa America.
Brazil's Pelé and Argentina's Diego Maradona never won the South American cup in all of their legendary careers, and the other number 10 reportedly covets to win the 2015 Copa America to atone his nation's 2011 early exit and the heartbreaking loss to Germany in last year's World Cup.
But is this finally the time when Messi will get what he really wants, an international victory for his country of birth?
The Argentinian captain, considered as the best player in the world right now as per ESPN, is coming off a 3-1 championship victory for his Spanish club FC Barcelona in the 2015 UEFA Champions League in Berlin. Barça was able to accomplish a Treble this year behind Messi's stunning heroics, winning La Liga and Copa del Rey as well.
The Champions League trophy is his career 24th with Barça and there seems to be nothing left to accomplish except international success.
The Argentinians are so far recovering from a shaky start in Group B competitions, winning a 1-0 game against defending champions Uruguay after settling for a draw versus 2011 runner-up Paraguay. Their next match will be against guest team Jamaica to punch a direct ticket to the quarterfinals of the Copa.
So far, everything is looking good for Messi and Argentina. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, they are definitely the top favorites to win it all this year.