RismadarVoice Reporters
September 2, 2026
The arrival of Lionel Messi marked a major transformation in the history of Argentina’s national football team, with the country moving from years of near success without trophies to an era defined by international dominance.
Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005 as an 18-year-old and went on to become the team’s most-capped player and leading goalscorer, recording 207 appearances and 125 goals during his international career.
Before Messi’s breakthrough years, Argentina remained one of football’s traditional giants but struggled to convert strong performances into major titles. The team reached several finals, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup final and Copa América finals in 2015 and 2016, but failed to win trophies during that period.
Between 1993 and 2021, Argentina endured a 28-year wait for a senior international title before Messi led the team to Copa América success in 2021. The victory against Brazil at the Maracanã ended the country’s long trophy drought and changed the perception of Messi’s international career.
2021 Copa America winning team
After that breakthrough, Argentina entered one of the most successful periods in its football history. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, the team added the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup and another Copa América title in 2024.
Messi’s individual numbers also reflected his influence. He became Argentina’s record holder for appearances, goals and assists, finishing his national team career with 207 matches, 125 goals and 68 assists.
The contrast between the two eras has been highlighted through Argentina’s results:
BEFORE MESSI’S TROPHY ERA
Multiple major tournament finals reached without a senior international title.
Heavy reliance on individual brilliance from star players.
Periods of disappointment despite strong squads.
A long wait for a major championship after the 1993 Copa América triumph.
AFTER MESSI’S LEADERSHIP ERA
Copa América champions in 2021.
Finalissima winners in 2022.
FIFA World Cup champions in 2022.
Copa América champions again in 2024.
A new generation of players developed around Messi’s leadership.
Beyond statistics, Messi’s influence changed Argentina’s identity on the international stage. The team evolved from a side often judged by missed opportunities into a more balanced and resilient squad capable of winning major tournaments.
Messi’s international career ended after more than two decades with Argentina, leaving behind records and a legacy that placed him among the country’s greatest football figures.
