CONCEPCION, Chile (AP) — Lionel Messi is a step closer to finally breaking through with Argentina.
The Barcelona star heads into the Copa America final with a chance to end his nation's 22-year title drought, and prove that he can replicate his club-level success with the national team.
Messi thrived in leading Argentina to a 6-1 rout of Paraguay in the semifinals on Tuesday, setting up a final against host Chile on Saturday.
Messi didn't score but helped to set up five goals, including a spectacular run past several defenders from near midfield.
It is Messi's and Argentina's second chance in a year to lift a trophy, and the first since the World Cup final in Brazil.
The Barcelona star heads into the Copa America final with a chance to end his nation's 22-year title drought, and prove that he can replicate his club-level success with the national team.
Messi thrived in leading Argentina to a 6-1 rout of Paraguay in the semifinals on Tuesday, setting up a final against host Chile on Saturday.
Messi didn't score but helped to set up five goals, including a spectacular run past several defenders from near midfield.
It is Messi's and Argentina's second chance in a year to lift a trophy, and the first since the World Cup final in Brazil.