He can’t do it for his country.
That is a criticism often levelled at Lionel Messi, the world’s greatest player who just won the treble with Barcelona. But despite winning player of the tournament at last summer’s World Cup, Messi’s inability to be Diego Maradona at international level has seen people doubt his achievements in an Argentine jersey.
But this summer could be his showcase. Argentina are favourites for the Copa America but despite fielding a team with Messi, Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria and Javier Mascherano, they blew a 2-0 lead last night to draw with Paraguay in their opening game.
Messi and Aguero hit the net in the first half but second half strikes from Nelson Valdez and Lucas Barrios saw Paraguay nick a point.
Argentina will likely still qualify from their group with games against Jamaica and Uruguay still to come but with such a talented squad – Higuain, Lavezzi and Tevez were all on the bench! – they should really be able to negotiate a game against Paraguay with ease.
