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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Argentina won title in 2021</li><li>Heavy favourites to retain trophy in U.S.</li><li>Messi attempts to alleviate some pressure</li></ul>

'Not everything is about winning' - Lionel Messi surprisingly plays down Argentina's favourites billing ahead of Copa America defence in the United States

World Cup Qualification CONMEBOL

Argentina

Peru

<a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/lionel-messi-bulk-mode-argentina-superstar-bicep-muscles-gym-copa-america-2024-canada/blt238e4e7983c8b161" target="_blank">Messi and Co. will begin their journey in Copa America 2024</a> in the United States as defending champions later this week in Georgia. The reigning world champions are widely considered favourites to defend their Copa America crown, however, their captain has sought to temper expectations among supporters.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Inter Miami star sounded cautious while claiming La Albiceleste cannot take anything for granted as he expects fierce competition in the continental tournament. Messi also thanked the people of Argentina for showering unconditional love on the team.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Speaking to <a href="https://x.com/CuervoLipara/status/1803257109582069994" target="_blank">America TV's Marcelo Tinelli</a>, the 36-year-old said: "Argentina are always favourites. I think it is going to be a very eventful tournament because national teams are becoming better and better. Argentina is always the favourite, we are like that and we take things for granted, that’s why we took so many blows. Today we are the best because we won the World Cup, but the Copa America is going to be difficult."Feeling loved by the entire country is the best, the greatest thing one can achieve as an athlete and as a person. I want to thank you and tell you that this continues and that we are going to try to win the Copa America again but let’s remember that not everything is about winning."

WHAT LIONEL MESSI SAID

The South American giants will play the Copa America opener on Friday against Canada at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and Messi will hope to put in a strong performance to help Lionel Scaloni's side start in perfect fashion.

WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA?

'Not everything is about winning' - Lionel Messi surprisingly plays down Argentina's favourites billing ahead of Copa America defence in the United States | Goal.com

Lionel Messi has played down Argentina&apos;s favourite tag as they prepare for their Copa America title defence in the USA.

&apos;Not everything is about winning&apos; - Lionel Messi surprisingly plays down Argentina&apos;s favourites billing ahead of Copa America defence in the United States