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Copa América: Lionel Messi And Barcelona Star Named In Team Of The Tournament
Lionel Messi is among five Argentina players included in Conmebol’s 2024 Copa América team of the tournament, named over two weeks after it finished.
The Argentina captain scored just one goal and provided an assist in five matches during the Copa, yet was still included in the best XI.
Messi was replaced in the second half of Argentina’s 1-0 win over Colombia in the final on July 14 due to an ankle injury.
Inter Milan forward, Lautaro Martínez, whose goal allowed Argentina to retain the title, was chosen in attack alongside Barcelona’s Raphinha, the only Brazil player included.
Colombia captain, James Rodríguez was named the MVP of the tournament and played a pivotal role in guiding Colombia to their first Copa America final in 23 years, contributing with one goal and six assists throughout the tournament.
Copa America 2024 team of the tournament
He was selected in a three-man midfield with Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte and Argentina’s Rodrigo de Paul.
Celtic’s Alistair Johnston was thrilled to be included as one of four defenders.
Johnston, who helped Canada reach the semifinals before losing to eventual champions Argentina, wrote on X: “My Spanish isn’t the best but looks like a decent XI.”
Colombia’s Davinson Sánchez and Argentina’s Cristian Romero were selected as the center-backs, while Ecuador’s Piero Hincapié was named as the left-back.
Aston Villa goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, who proved key in Argentina only conceding one goal during the tournament in the United States, was selected in goal.
Martinez also made two crucial saves during the shootout victory against Ecuador in the quarterfinals.
