Argentina kicked-off their Copa America defence with a typically-efficient 2-0 win over Canada last weekend.
Of course, all eyes were on Lionel Messi during that curtain-raising success. In the end though, it was Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez who fired La Albiceleste to victory.
It’s surely only a matter of time before Messi makes his mark at the Copa America, and this article will look to give you the ammunition required to attack all the key Messi markets in the holders’ clash with Chile.
Lionel Messi odds today – latest prices
Argentina are heavy 2/5 (1.4) favourites on Betfred to make it two wins from two in Group A against Chile. It’s no surprise to see Argentina at such short prices given that they have won 14 of their 15 matches since lifting the World Cup, with talisman Messi netting 10 times across that period.
Messi to score anytime
Despite failing to find the back of the net in Argentina’s 2-0 win against Canada, Lionel Messi is Betfred’s 11/10 (2.1) favourite in the anytime goalscorer market against Chile.
Messi will be extra-motivated to open his Copa America account at the second time of asking.
With Messi almost certain to be taking free-kicks and penalties, he is an obvious candidate to make his mark against Ricardo Gareca’s side.
Messi to score first
Lionel Messi is 3/1 (4.0) with Betfred to score the opening goal of the game in Argentina's second match of the tournament against Chile
While Argentina have a squad laced with world class talent, they don’t tend to walk all over their opponents.
Lionel Scaloni is more than happy for his side to ditch glamour for getting the job done, which would only increase the likelihood of Messi grabbing the first goal of the game.
Messi Man of the Match odds
As tends to be the case, Messi is the bookies' favourite to win the Man of the Match award in Argentina's latest Copa America assignment. The Inter Miami maestro is a general 4/6 (1.67) to scoop the award, while Man City’s Julian Alvarez is next in line at 5/1 (6.0).
Messi to Score 2+ Goals
Lionel Messi scored two goals in Argentina's final warm-up game before the Copa America and he is 6/1 (7.0) on Betfred to bag a brace against Chile. Messi has scored multiple goals in four of his last 12 appearances for the national team, including a double in the 2022 World Cup final.
Argentina vs Chile Bet Builder
Argentina to Win, Both Teams to Score No and Lionel Messi 1+ Shot on Target at 8/5 (2.6) on Betfred
Argentina to Win
Argentina are extremely efficient operators and they can secure another solid if unspectacular success against Chile. While La Roja should prove a tougher challenge for Messi and co to overcome on matchday two, the world champions' superior class should eventually tell.
Both Teams to Score- No
Argentina’s rock-solid defence has been the foundation for their success in recent years. Lionel Scaloni’s side have silenced their opponents in 12 of their 15 outings since their World Cup success. Thus, backing the reigning champions to record another clean sheet against Ricardo Gareca’s side looks the way to go.
Lionel Messi Over 0.5 Shots on Target
After blanking in Argentina's opening Group A fixture, Lionel Messi will be keen to take centre-stage against Chile. The Argentine ace is sure to be in the thick of the action in the final-third, and he should test the opposition goalkeeper at least once.
Freelance Sports Writer and Betting Analyst with over five years experience. I’ve written football and darts betting content for some of the biggest betting websites and newspapers in the UK. With a strong passion for the fascinating world of Scottish football, I also regularly feature in Nutmeg, the much-loved Scottish football magazine. Falkirk season ticket holder and avid watcher of football and darts, whether it be UK-based or further afield. Feel free to follow me on X @SlipsTips
