Messi and Ronaldo’s battle for supremacy has taken another dimension after this record appearance for Argentina. Lionel Messi’s record-breaking run with the Argentina National Team still continues, in addition to everything he has done in terms of achievements, the Albiceleste has come a long way since his debut against Hungary on August 17, 2005.
The new accolade was achieved by the Inter Miami star against Ecuador in a friendly that went Argentina’s way in front of 85,000 spectators at the Soldier Field stadium (Chicago) that enjoyed their 1-0 victory. Lionel Scaloni replaced Angel Di Maria in the 56th minute of the match to bring in Messi, which marked his first appearance for Albiceleste in 2024. This match marked his 181st match for a World Cup-winning country, taking him ahead of Sergio Ramos, who has made 180 appearances with Spain.
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With the Copa America in the coming week, it’s a record which will continue to be extended leaving Cristiano Ronaldo out of the picture due to the obvious reason as he has not won a World Cup with Portugal. This is especially for the players who played the most games for their national teams after being crowned World Champions.
There is a saying that good things come in pairs and Messi managed to add another record in the match he played against Ecuador in the Conmebol qualifiers by scoring the only goal in Argentina’s 1-0 victory. That September 2023 night he scored the only goal in Estadio Monumental (Buenos Aires) from a free kick equalling Luis Suarez, who had 29 goals for Uruguay, as the top scorer in that competition. Later, Messi took his place at the summit as top scorer with a brace against Peru at Estadio Nacional (Lima) on October 18.
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