A football game distinguishes Lionel Messi from immortality among the faithful in Argentina.
The Barcelona striker has won everything on offer at home, but he has not yet lifted large silver objects in the blue and white of his beloved homeland. At the age of 34 and 90 minutes from fulfilling his fate, Messi may not get a better chance than Saturday night’s big deal.
Argentina travels to Maracana to host Copa America holders and hosts Brazil, aware that they can end a 28-year drought in the competition by winning a final for the first time in five attempts.
So with the odds stacked against them, it’s time for heroes. But who should start? Here are the 11 players to be selected in Saturday night’s 2021 Copa America final.
Straffmästaren / Andressa Anholete / Getty Images
Emi Martinez (GK) – The hero of the semi-final shot, there is absolutely no doubt about this conversation. He’s Messi’s favorite player too, by the sound of things.
Nahuel Molina (RB) – The Udinese man was not the best in the semi-final victory, but his direct competition, Gonzalo Montiel, has not impressed either.
German Pezzella (CB) – It will be a huge night for Pezzella, who ends a difficult campaign with Fiorentina by competing in a Copa America final. What a turnaround.
Nicolas Otamendi (CB) – The former Manchester City man may be a bit of a responsibility, but with Cristian Romero still in doubt, he should complete the midfield partnership for the final.
Nicolas Tagliafico (LB) – An adventurous back, Tagliafico is the last name in the backline. He faces a challenge to stop Brazil’s floating forward line.
Pointing the way / Alexandre Schneider / Getty Images
Rodrigo De Paul (CM) – The spark in the middle of the park. De Paul blew away Serie A again last year and hopes to end a sublime season with great honor.
Leandro Paredes (CM) – The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder will have a tough night ahead of him, but this is not the first time he has experienced the excitement on the big stage. Giovani Lo Celso (CM) – A cowardly opponent in the middle of the midfield, Lo Celso’s fight with Casemiro and Fred is well worth keeping an eye on.
The Boys / Pedro Vilela / Getty Images
Lionel Messi (RW) – The biggest player on the biggest stage in South America. Time to shine and fulfill their destiny. Take it home, Leo.
Lautaro Martinez (ST) – Argentina snuck past Colombia in the semis, and it was thanks to Martinez’s goal that it went to penalty. Watch out for his connection to Messi.
Nico Gonzalez (LW) – It’s a close call for the left spot, but Gonzalez should get the nod. However, the competition from Alejandro Gomez and Angel Di Maria is strong.
