Argentina extended their winning start to the Copa America with a 1-0 victory over their South American rivals on Tuesday night, to book their place in the last 16.
Lautaro Martinez fired home the winner two-minutes from time with Messi playing a key role in the Albiceleste’s latest triumph.
The Chile shot-stopper knows all about the wizardry of the Argentina captain having played together at Barcelona before Bravo’s switch to Manchester City in 2016.
Messi has not always had his own way against Bravo who was between the posts in the finals of the Copa America in 2015 and 2016 which saw Messi denied a senior trophy with his country on both occasions.
But the Inter Miami star reigned supreme this time round at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. So far in the tournament he has created at least three more big chances (6) than any other player.
However, following the game and when Bravo was conducting a post-match interview, Messi interrupted a discussion with a reporter to console his former teammate in a heartwarming moment.
Lionel Scaloni’s side came into the competition as overwhelming favourites to retain the trophy they won in 2021.
Judging by their exploits in the opening two games, few would bet against Argentina winning a third-straight major tournament.
With a three-point lead over second-placed Canada in the group and a game against Peru still to play, Scaloni has the luxury of rotating his squad for the clash on Saturday night.
And that could see the Argentina boss rest 37-year-old Messi who played the 90 minutes against Chile with some ‘discomfort’.
Messi has been at the heart of Argentina’s swift attacking play during the tournament and superbly laid on an assist for Martinez’s goal against Canada in the opening group game.
Meanwhile, Chile have it all to play for in their final group game against Canada knowing a win could see them overtake their opponents and snatch the final qualification spot for the knockout rounds.
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