Lionel Messi vs James Rodriguez: The Rivalry That Defines South American Football

The upcoming match between Colombia and Argentina promises to be a thrilling encounter, with two of the world's best players going head-to-head.

Lionel Messi, the Barcelona and Argentina captain, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. He has won numerous individual and team awards, including the Ballon d'Or six times. James Rodriguez, the Real Madrid and Colombia playmaker, is one of the most exciting young talents in the game. He was the top scorer at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and has since established himself as a key player for Real Madrid.

The rivalry between Messi and Rodriguez is one of the most intense in South American football. They have faced each other on several occasions, with Messi's Argentina winning two of the three matches.

The upcoming match between Colombia and Argentina will be the first time that Messi and Rodriguez have faced each other since the 2019 Copa America. Argentina won that match 2-0, with Messi scoring one of the goals.

Colombia will be hoping to get revenge for that defeat, but Argentina will be confident of extending their winning streak against their rivals. The match is sure to be a close and exciting encounter, with both teams looking to make a statement ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.