In the buildup to the 2016 Copa América Centenario final, Chilean legend Arturo Vidal shared insights into the team’s focused strategy aimed at stopping Lionel Messi. The plan centered on closing down the Argentina forward immediately whenever he received the ball, denying him any space to maneuver or create chances. The Chilean squad recognized Messi’s exceptional ability to overcome multiple defenders, making it essential to pressure him aggressively throughout the match.
Speaking on the ‘A dos cámaras‘ YouTube channel, Vidal detailed the team‘s mindset, emphasizing their commitment to holding Messi accountable whenever he was near the ball. He stated,
“What we were clear about was that when Leo had the ball, every player who was close had to come up to help press him. Why? Because we knew that he is the most important player that Argentina has. And he is the only one who can leave you alone, he can go against one, two or three. He can go to three and score a goal. So, what this team had was that it was very focused on what was planned, which was to mark Messi without giving him many options, try to take the ball away from him as soon as possible or foul him.” —Arturo Vidal, Chilean Midfielder
How the 2016 Copa América Final Played Out and Key Moments
The intense defensive tactics helped keep Messi limited throughout the match as the 2016 Copa América Centenario final ended in a 0-0 draw after extra time. Both teams were reduced to 10 men in the first half, reflecting the match’s intense physicality. The championship was ultimately decided in a penalty shootout. Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was pivotal, saving a penalty from Lucas Biglia, while Argentina’s goalkeeper Sergio Romero blocked Vidal’s attempt. Messi notably missed his penalty by sending it over the bar, enabling Chile to clinch the title with a 4-2 shootout victory.
Vidal Reflects on Chile’s Victory and Team Performance
Arturo Vidal praised the Chilean squad’s overall approach and physical dominance during the tournament. He believed the team expertly managed the game’s rhythm and executed their preparation flawlessly, resulting in what he described as the perfect match. Vidal remarked,
“The good thing about this match is that at no time, with the ball, did we rush. What we did when we recovered was for the team to be wide so that they could never put pressure on us. Physically we were superior to them, because we have always shown it, we Chileans are physically very good. We prepared one hundred percent in this Copa America Centenario (…) It was a perfect match.” —Arturo Vidal, Chilean Midfielder
Aftermath: Messi’s Temporary Retirement and His Return to International Football
Following the defeat, Lionel Messi shocked many by announcing his retirement from international football, leaving the Argentina squad stunned. However, he reversed his decision two months later and returned to lead Argentina in future competitions. Since then, Messi has added two Copa América titles and a FIFA World Cup victory to his impressive career achievements.