Even at nearly 34 years old, Lionel Messi continues to be arguably the best free-kick taker in the world. Unfortunately, his ability wasn't enough to boost Argentina to an opening-match victory at Copa America 2021.
The superstar's skill was on display once again on Monday in Rio de Janeiro as Messi struck a picture-perfect first-half free-kick to give his side the lead, but a 57th-minute goal by Eduardo Vargas gave the Chileans the 1-1 draw as Argentina had to settle for a single point in the Group A match.
While the overall narrative of Monday's stalemate will no doubt focus on the Argentines' inability to claim a victory despite enjoying an 18-5 advantage in shots, it was Messi's 33rd-minute stunner that defined the game.
Stepping up from 25 yards out, Messi hit a left-footer that curled over the wall and inside the post, leaving Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo with little else to do but flail at the ball at full stretch as it sailed past him.
Messi and Argentina will get their chance at a first win of the tournament on Friday night against Uruguay, while Chile faces Bolivia earlier that same day.