Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi strikes to score a free-kick for Argentina against the United States. Getty Images

Lionel Messi broke Argentina’s all-time scoring record and American hearts in truly mesmerizing fashion in the semifinals of the Copa America Centenario. Having already set up Argentina’s opening goal after just three minutes, Messi doubled his team’s lead in the 32nd minute with a stunning free-kick. Stepping up 25 yards out, the Barcelona star whipped the ball over the line and sent it curling into the far corner of the net beyond the despairing reach of United States goalkeeper Brad Guzan.

The goal means Messi moves above Gabriel Batistuta to the top of Argentina’s all-time coring charts, with 55 goals. It also put him onto five goals for the tournament, one behind leader Eduardo Vargas of Chile. Having started the first two games on the bench following a pre-tournament back injury, Messi has wasted little time leaving his mark on this special 100-year celebration of South America’s championship.