Messi broke a record that had been held since 1953

The legendary Lionel Messi has set yet another unique record.

Last night, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner started in the first-round match of the Copa America 2024 against Canada (2-0). This game marked Messi's 35th career appearance in the Copa America, setting an absolute record in the tournament's history.

The previous record was held by former Chilean goalkeeper Sergio Livingstone, who played 34 games in the Copa America from 1941 to 1953.

Messi played his first Copa America match on June 29, 2007, against the United States (4-1).

In the match against Canada, Messi notched an assist and played a crucial role in the first goal-scoring attack.

Messi could play his 36th career Copa America match on the night of June 26 against Chile.