Argentina attacker says he wants to avenge poor 2022 FIFA World Cup showing by impressing at Copa America 2024

Argentina star Lautaro Martinez has spoken about his pereparation for Copa America 2024 following his underwhelming performances at the 2022 World Cup. The Inter Milan striker opened up on playing through an injury two years ago in Qatar, describing his mindset during the tournament.

He said (via AlbicelesteTalk on X):

"In the World Cup, there were moments of a lot of suffering. I wanted to undergo surgery, I couldn't bear the pain any longer."

"But today I am enjoying it. I worked hard to arrive in good shape for this Copa America and to get my revenge for the World Cup."

Martinez had a difficult 2022 World Cup for La Albiceleste. Despite the side's historic triumph, he failed to notch a goal or an assist in six appearances.

However, he has silenced his critics with an impressive start to the 2024 Copa America. He is the leading scorer in the tournament with four goals in three games, including a brace against Peru in the last group stage match.

The striker's rich vein of form helped fire Argentina to the top of Group A with three wins from three games over Canada, Chile and Peru, respectively. Fans will hope he can continue his good touch in the knockouts where they will face Ecuador in the quarter-finals on July 4.

Argentina star confirms retirement after Copa America 2024

Di Maria has confirmed Copa America 2024 to be his last tournament with the national team.

Argentina attacker Angel Di Maria has confirmed that Copa America 2024 will be his last tournament for the national side. Speaking after the side's 2-0 win over Peru, the former Real Madrid man said (via Marca):

“I’m enjoying every moment of these last few games with Argentina. At times, I’m a little melancholic, but the decision has already been made."

“I’ve said it many times and there’s no turning back. This Copa is my last with the national team and I want to have three more games.”

Di Maria took up the captain's armband in the 2-0 win over Peru after Lionel Messi missed out with an injury. With that game, he notched 143 appearances for Argentina, tying legendary defender Javier Zanetti.

Lionel Scaloni's men will be hoping that the Benfica attacker can emulate his performances from the previous edition in the knockouts. The 36-year-old scored the winning goal in the final against Brazil last time out.