The figure: Argentina's thrashing to the rhythm of Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi only lacked the goal to crown his brilliant performance against Paraguay in the semi-finals, where Argentina won 6-1 to reach the Copa America final in great form.

The forward combined brilliantly with Pastore and both led every attack of Martino's team, which for the first time in the tournament was able to reflect their football superiority on the scoreboard.

At the 15th minute, the lefty crossed from the left and Marco Rojo took advantage in the heart of the box to open the scoring.

At the 27th minute, Barcelona's star player started from the center and assisted Pastore who finished with a low shot for the 2-0.

Although the Flea couldn't be very close to the box to try to score, he did the sacrifice of going back to drag marks and generate spaces that his teammates took advantage of in a great way.

Another tremendous play by Messi, which included a nutmeg, allowed him to make another assist to Di Maria at 53', for the fourth goal at that moment, in a total party of the 'Albiceleste'.

His last touch was at 83', when he did a wall pass and despite falling, he fought from the ground to assist Higuain who sealed the match with the sixth goal.

It sounds strange that Argentina scored six goals and none of them were by Messi, but the Barcelona player made his captaincy weigh and set the rhythm of a crushing victory that fills them with confidence for the final against Chile.