James Rodriguez, who helped Colombia go to the 2024 Copa America final and broke Lionel Messi’s record, gave a moving speech.
Former Real Madrid player captains his nation
stimulates the imagination in a playmaking post
exceeded the records of the greatest
Consequently, what happened?
From his 2011 senior international debut, the former Real Madrid player—who currently plays club football for Sao Paulo in Brazil—has been a national hero. Despite being 32 years old, he still possesses his creative abilities and has amassed over 100 caps.
THE LARGER IMAGE
James is competing in his fourth Copa tournament right now. He debuted in that competition in 2015, and since records started to be kept in 2011, he has become the tournament’s top assist producer in just one edition.
James Rodríguez's is the first player on record (since 2011) with six assists in a single edition of a Copa America, surpassing Lionel Messi (five assists in 2021).#URUCOL #CopaAmerica pic.twitter.com/MHDxmPyv28
— Opta Analyst US (@OptaAnalystUS) July 11, 2024
WERE YOU AWARENESS?
When he led the Albiceleste to continental triumph in 2021, Argentine sensation Messi had set the bar at five, but James has since posted six in 2024. Through his efforts, a final meeting with the current World Cup champions has been arranged.
JAMES’S QUOTES
After setting up Jefferson Lerma’s game-winning goal in a wild semifinal battle against Uruguay, James told TyC Sports, “We had an excellent game.” The umpire performed poorly. The boys that stood up did a good job. We defeated a formidable opponent in a highly complex game, but we still earned a spot in the championship. I’ve wanted this for over 13 years now since I’ve been here. We’re content.
Next?
James has six assists in five games. In a decisive 5-0 quarterfinal victory over Panama, he also finds the goal himself from the penalty spot. Now that he is leading his country, his extensive experience is being effectively utilised.
