**How Has Messi Fared Against Paraguay?**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 15, 2024

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How Has Messi Fared Against Paraguay? A Look at the Argentina Legend's Record

Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest footballer of all time, has faced Paraguay countless times throughout his illustrious career. His performances against the "Guaraní" have been a mix of triumphs and frustrations, showcasing both his brilliance and the challenges he's encountered in this particular matchup.

Messi's Early Encounters with Paraguay:

Messi's first encounter with Paraguay came in 2005 during a friendly match for Argentina. While the match ended in a draw, it was a sign of things to come - Messi's talent was evident, and he quickly became a key figure for the Albiceleste.

Dominance in Qualifying Campaigns:

Throughout various World Cup and Copa América qualifying campaigns, Messi has consistently shone against Paraguay. His goals, assists, and overall control of the game have often been crucial for securing victories for Argentina. He has consistently proven his ability to break down Paraguay's defense, finding the back of the net on several occasions.

Frustration in Major Tournaments:

Despite his success in qualifying matches, Messi's record against Paraguay in major tournaments has been less impressive.

• Copa América 2011: Argentina and Paraguay met in the quarter-finals, with the game ending in a goalless draw. A penalty shootout saw Paraguay emerge victorious, sending Messi and Argentina home early.
• Copa América 2015: This tournament saw Argentina defeat Paraguay in the group stages, but Messi's performance was not his most impactful.
• Copa América 2019: This tournament, unfortunately, ended in another penalty shootout defeat for Argentina, this time against Paraguay in the quarter-finals.

Key Takeaways:

Despite some frustrating moments, Messi's record against Paraguay paints a mixed picture.

• Dominant in Qualification: He consistently performs at a high level in qualifying matches, showcasing his class and ability to lead Argentina to victory.
• Challenges in Major Tournaments: While he has had some successful moments, major tournament clashes have been more difficult, highlighting the unpredictable nature of international football.

The Future:

As Messi continues to play for Argentina, the possibility of him facing Paraguay again remains high. It will be fascinating to see how he navigates these encounters, and if he can finally break through the barrier of achieving success in major tournaments against this persistent opponent.