Last Chance For Messi As Argentina, Brazil Clash In Rio

HUNDREDSOF millions of sports fans from around the globe will be glued to their TVS for a Super Sunday of sport this weekend, which is one of the best the world has ever seen.

Four blue riband events span 21 hours, across three sports and three time zones, and while watching every minute will take some dedication and planning, the opportunity is possibly unprecedented.

First up for British viewers will be the final of the Copa America, a huge tie between the holders Brazil and Argentina at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, which kicks off at 1am.

The match is intriguing on every level.

Argentina won the last of their 14 Copa America titles in 1993, and face the defending champions Brazil, who have won it nine times, themselves.

The showpiece will also pit Barcelona’s Lionel Messi against his former team mate, Paris Saint Germain’s Neymar. It will be a battle for bragging rights, but also the individuals’ legacies.

For Argentina, it’s a chance to put an end to a trophy drought and for Messi to finally add the major international trophy - excluding his Olympic gold medal - that has eluded him and that his talent deserves.

Messi, 34, in particular, has been superb in a mediocre tournament, with four goals and five assists in the competition, contributing to nine of Argentina’s 11 goal haul.

The Copa America 2021 final will be played today July 10, at 9pm local time in Brazil, but due to the time difference, it will take place on Sunday July 11 at 1am in the UK.

BBC has the broadcast rights for the Copa America in the UK and it will be available to watch live on the BBC Red Button service. It will be available to stream live online through the BBC iplayer.