“I didn’t feel like myself” - Argentina star reveals how Lionel Messi’s speech inspired him

Argentina centre-back Lisandro Martinez has revealed how captain Lionel Messi's speech on the eve of the 2021 Copa America final inspired him to give his best. La Albiceleste would beat hosts Brazil 1-0 at the Maracana - exactly three years ago - to end their 28-year international trophy drought.

With COVID-19 restrictions still in place because of the global pandemic, players hadn't seen their families for 45 days. Messi told the group that they owe it to their families and fans back home to win the trophy and celebrate with them.

La Pulga's speech seemingly galvanised the entire group, as La Albiceleste won their first continental crown in 28 years - 15th overall - thanks to an Angel Di Maria first-half winner.

Recalling his feelings during Lionel Messi's speech, Martinez said after Lionel Scaloni's side reached another Copa final by beating Canada 2-0 on Tuesday (July 9) (via Albiceleste Talk):

“What did I feel during Leo’s speech? Uf, I didn’t feel like myself. ... It’s like we have the energy of many people, that’s what happens to me. I believe a lot in energy, and it feels like my family, my friends, the entire Argentine people are with us. And it’s like we step onto the field, and we’re going to kill.

"What does this team have? It has incredible humility, humility when it comes to working, when it comes to accepting criticism, and we are the first to want to improve. We want to win every match and always approach each game as if it were a final, and that is priceless."

Julian Alvarez opened the scoring inside 21 minutes before Lionel Messi opened his account for the tournament six minutes into the second period to confirm victory at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

They await Uruguay or Colombia in the final on Sunday (July 14) at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami.

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What Lionel Messi told his teammtes ahead of Argentina's 2021 Copa America final

Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, celebrate their 2021 Copa America win.

Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to their first senior title in nearly three decades, winning his first in the process. The then Barcelona player led from the front - with four goals and five assists in six games - to book a final date with Brazil.

Ahead of ending his international title drought, Messi brought to his teammates' attention that they had made any personal sacrifices by being away from their family and loved ones for nearly seven weeks.

“We already know we are, who Brazil are," he said as per MARCA (via Eurosport). "I won't say more on the matter. I want to thank you all for these past 45 days boys. I said it on the day of my birthday, this is a spectacular group, a beautiful group.

"It's been 45 days of hard work in which we haven't complained about the travelling, the food, the hotels, the pitches, nothing. “45 days without seeing our families. 45 days... El Dibu (Emilio Martinez) became a father and didn't even get to see his new born child, and why? Because of this moment boys.

With the team being on the cusp of the title, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner wanted his teammates to achieve their 'objective':

“We had an objective, and we're one step away from achieving it, and the best thing about it is it's in our hands. So, we're going to go out there and lift the trophy, we're going to take it home to Argentina and enjoy it with our family, friends with everyone that has supported Argentina."

La Pulga concluded:

“And I want to finish with this: Coincidences don't exist. This tournament had to be played in Argentina and do you know why?

"Because God brought it here so we win here in the Maracana for all of us. So let's go out there with confidence, with cool heads, and let's win this trophy. Come on boys!”

Three years later, Lionel Messi and Co. are looking to becoming the first team since Chile (2015-16) to win back-to-back Copa titles. Messi has contributed a goal and an assist in four games.