Argentina took on Brazil in this year’s Copa America final, but how have the sides fared in the tournament in recent times?
Maracana is ready for greatest rivalry
Argentina takes on Brazil at Maracana Stadium on Saturday night in an occasion that will be much more than just Messi versus Neymar. This is one of the most intense rivalries in international football. Going back almost a century ago, the sides met in 1925 in what was then known as the South American Championship. The final of the competition was played on Christmas Day in Buenos Aires. Nasty scenes on the day saw the two nations wait 12 years to play again and renew the rivalry between the two football-loving countries.
Copa America success for Brazil
On Saturday, Brazil will be playing their seventh final in the last 11 editions of the Copa America, winning on their most recent five appearances in the showpiece game (1997, 1999, 2004, 2007 and 2019). Their last defeat in a Copa América final was in 1995, when they lost to Uruguay in a penalty shoot-out. The Selecao have not lost a knockout match at the Copa América since 2001, when they suffered a 2-0 loss against Honduras.
Messi’s missing piece
Lionel Messi holds the records for most caps and goals for Argentina, and his career at club level with Barcelona has ensured his legacy will be intrinsically linked to the sport for the rest of time. Arguably the greatest player of all time, many still question his career as he has not yet won a single major title with Argentina. The Barcelona captain has some minor success, as he won the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship. Three years later, he tasted glory again, this time at the 2008 China Olympics. Joined by Sergio Aguero, Riquelme and Angel Di Maria, they beat Brazil in the semi-final and defeated Nigeria in the last round of the tournament.