By: Associated Press
June 22, 2016
HOUSTON (AP) -- If the United States wanted an opportunity to see how far it still has to improve to be a top-flight international soccer power, top-ranked Argentina provided it.
Argentina routed Team USA 4-0 in the Copa America semifinal. International superstar Lionel Messi had a goal and two assists. He has become Argentina's all-time leading scorer in international play with his goal in the 32nd minute. That was the 55th goal in international play for the five-time world player of the year.
The US is 3-16-1 all-time in competitive matches against Argentina.
Prior to its loss against Argentina, the US had won three straight games in the tournament. They also opened the tournament with a loss to Colombia.
Argentina next plays the Colombia-Chile winner in the tournament's final Sunday.
Team USA plays the Colombia-Chile loser in the third place game Saturday.