Lionel Messi's final Copa America campaign has been a wild ride, full of drama, controversy, and moments of pure magic. And it's only the group stage.
The Argentine great has been a force to be reckoned with on the pitch, scoring three goals and providing two assists in his first two matches against Chile and Bolivia. But it's not just his on-field exploits that have been making headlines – it's the way he's been treated by the fans, the media, and even his own teammates.
After Argentina's 2-0 win over Bolivia, Messi was seen celebrating with his teammates, but not without some awkward moments. The usually effervescent captain was subdued and distant, almost as if he was trying to keep a low profile. It's a far cry from the man who used to lead the team with such passion and energy.
And then there was the controversy surrounding Messi's goal against Chile. The Argentine FA claimed that the goal was valid, despite the ball appearing to be slightly offside. The Chilean FA, of course, disagreed, and the incident sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits alike.
But amidst all the drama and controversy, Messi has still managed to find time to be his usual brilliant self on the pitch. His goal against Bolivia was a stunning strike, a curling shot from outside the box that left the goalkeeper with no chance.
So, is this the end of an era for Messi at the Copa America? It's hard to say, but one thing is certain – his final campaign has already been one for the ages. Whether you love him or hate him, Messi is a true great of the game, and his presence on the pitch is always a guarantee of excitement and drama.
It's amazing, it's awful – and it's not over yet.
