Messi Admits He Is Yet To Hit Top Form In Copa America

Messi Admits He Is Yet To Hit Top Form In Copa America

By Joshua Walters

Lionel Messi says he is yet to have his best form in the Copa America, but believes the team's advancement to the semi-final is very vital.

Argentina defeated Venezuela 2-0 in the quarter-final on Friday to book a date with host nation Brazil who eliminated Paraguay 4-3 on penalties at the Arena do Gremio.

Goals from Lautaro Martinez and Lo Celso guaranteed Argentina a place in the semi-final.

Messi, in four games, has scored just one goal in the campaign, scoring from the spot against Paraguay in the group stage.

The 32-year-old, who is concerned with helping his side edge past Brazil admitted he is yet to hit top form in the tournament.

"The truth is that it's not been my best Copa America, not what I expected," Messi said.

"There are matches that occur in this way. You cannot play a lot, it's complicated for those of us who want to do something different, to avoid rivals.

"The important thing is that we won and we continue."

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who played behind Sergio Aguero and Lautaro Martinez praised their attacking trio as he bemoaned the pitches which have been a regular subject for criticisms throughout the tournament in Brazil.

"We know it is fundamental that if we want to play the top three, we must run and help in defence," he said.

"It is a cup match, anyone beats anyone. It is difficult to play, the pitches are bad. It is a shame that all the pitches are like this in a Copa America."

The Barcelona captain will now look to win a trophy with his national side having lost four major finals with the team.