Messi Becomes Argentina's All-Time Leading Goalscorer

Argentina forward Lionel Messi scored the 55th international goal of his career during Tuesday's 4-0 win over the United States in the Copa America semi-final, breaking a tie with Gabriel Batistuta as the all-time leading goalscorer in Argentina history, per ESPN Stats & Info.

But first, La Albiceleste took a 1-0 lead in the third minute when Messi sent a perfect aerial through ball to forward Ezequiel Lavezzi, who knocked it home with his head for the early advantage.

Argentina continued to dominate possession throughout the first half, eventually earning a free-kick from 30 yards out in the 32nd minute.

In typical fashion, Messi sent a perfect shot into the top-right corner past U.S. goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who had a night that he'd probably like to forget.

Not quite done making an impact, the 28-year-old FC Barcelona superstar set up forward Gonzalo Higuain in the 86th minute for the fourth and final goal of the contest, unselfishly passing the ball to his teammate after stealing it deep in the United States' half.

Now his country's all-time leading scorer, Messi is followed on the list by Batistuta (54 goals), Hernan Crespo (35) and Sergio Aguero (34)—the last of whom still has time to add to his total.

Argentina will face either Chile or Colombia in the Copa America final.