
Lionel Messi is staying positive despite his national team being on the verge of elimination from the 2019 Copa America.
Argentina have one point from two games, losing 2-0 to Colombia before playing out a 1-1 draw with Paraguay, however Messi is still optimistic they can turn things around.
“We have to think positively and keep our confidence,” he said.
“We need to improve and arrive in the best shape possible for the next match … and we have to win.
“It would crazy if we couldn’t progress from the group given that there are practically three teams that go through.”
Argentina must beat Qatar in the final group game if they are to have any chance of progressing to the quarterfinals, otherwise another embarrassing elimination awaits.
La Albiceleste have not won a major tournament for since 1993, where they were crowned Copa America champions after defeating Mexico 2-1 in the final.
Messi is desperate to break the nation’s drought and to win his first major international trophy but knows it will not be easy.
“We knew it wasn’t going to be easy playing in a Copa America, we’re searching for a team, for a performance,” he said.
“Venezuela made it hard for Brazil. At the moment we’re not winning any more in the (Argentina) shirt and we have to put things right to earn the three points.”
Argentina face Qatar on Monday at 5am (AEST).