Chapter 3 The king's return

2021. Copa América. The final was set: Argentina vs. Brazil. In Brazil. In the legendary Maracanã. It was more than a match-it was destiny. For years, Argentina came close, only to fall at the final hurdle. But this time, something had changed.

This team wasn't just talented-they were united. Coach Lionel Scaloni had built a family. Messi led not with words, but with fire. Rodrigo De Paul fought like a lion. Lautaro ran endlessly. And then came that moment: Di María, the eternal warrior, chipped the Brazilian keeper. 1-0.

The bench erupted. On the sidelines, Messi dropped to his knees.

As the whistle blew, tears flowed. Not just from Messi, but from millions watching across Argentina. From the villages of Salta to the clubs in Buenos Aires, people danced, cried, and screamed the name of their king.

It wasn't just a win. It was healing. It was validation. Messi, the kid once doubted, now lifted a trophy with Argentina's crest on his chest. After 16 years, the drought was over.

The critics were silent. The people were louder than ever.

And in the joy of that night, a message echoed across the world: Argentina is back. Stronger. Hungrier. And they're not done yet.