Messi Breaks Pele’s Record and Lifts Copa America

Lionel Messi scored his 79th international career goal for Argentina, during their World Cup qualifier win against Bolivia, breaking the South American men’s record held by Brazilian legend, Pele – and he finally got to lift the Copa America cup.

Pele handed in his soccer boots holding the long standing record of 77 international goals in 92 games, however, the six Ballon d’Or awards winner has now surpassed it in 153 appearances.

Coming in third on the South American men’s list is Neymar, who has scored 69 international goals for Brazil.

The 34-year-old forward broke down in tears after the Argentine team was finally presented with the Copa America trophy – which he led the team to win in July, 2020 against arch rivals, Brazil.

He said: “I was very nervous, I just wanted to enjoy the night. I waited a long time for this. We won the game [and] that was the most important thing and now we can celebrate.”

He added: “I dreamed of it [trophy] and thank God it was given to me. It is a unique moment because of how it happened and where it happened. My mother, my brothers are here in the stands. They have suffered a lot … I’m very happy.”

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