“Celebrating a little more” - Lionel Messi shares snap of birthday party with Argentina players, Emi Martinez and Rodrigo De Paul send messages
Argentina legend Lionel Messi recently shared a picture of his birthday celebrations alongside his international teammates, including Emi Martinez and Rodrigo De Paul. The legendary forward turned 37 on June 24 at the ongoing Copa America 2024.
Messi shared the picture with his 504 million Instagram followers and thanked everyone for their wishes on his special day.
"Thank you so much for all the greetings and congratulations!! Another year that coincides with my birthday being with the National Team... So celebrating a little bit more and we keep getting ready for our next game. Hugs!" he captioned the post.
Martinez commented under the post, telling the iconic number 10:
"Happy birthday boss"
De Paul also sent his warmest regards, writing:
"Happy birthday brother! May life continue to give you everything you deserve!"
Argentina will be keen to give Lionel Messi the gift he enjoys the most - victory on the pitch - when they take on Chile on June 25. While it would be a belated present, the Barcelona legend is unlikely to complain as a win for Argentina would guarantee them passage to the knockout stages as they seek to retain their Copa America crown.
Lionel Messi, Emi Martinez, and Rodrigo De Paul out to secure knockout qualification for Argentina at Copa America 2024
Lionel Messi and Co. will be keen to see off Chile in Argentina's second Group A game at Copa America 2024. A win against La Roja would be enough to see La Albiceleste through to the knockout rounds.
The holders head into their second game fresh off a strong performance against Canada but will be wary of their fellow South Americans. Argentina, though, have a strong core of players at their disposal and are the favorites to win the tie.
Emi Martinez, one of the best shot-stoppers in the world, will be keen to build on his opening-day clean sheet and will trust Rodrigo De Paul in the heart of midfield to keep the game under control. The Atletico Madrid midfielder was fantastic against Canada, completing 95% of his passes and 100% of his tackles to help his nation to a 2-0 win.
Most importantly, Argentina will have the ultimate trump card in Lionel Messi. The legendary forward will be fresh off his 37th birthday and remains capable of deciding the outcome of a game in an instant.