Messi answers criticism of Argentina's World Cup, Copa America final losses

After netting a late equaliser against Mexico at the AT&T Stadium on Tuesday night, four-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi responded to the harsh media criticism he received after losses in the 2014 World Cup final and 2015 Copa America final.

It was by no means a classic performance by Argentina in Texas, but Messi's goal - controlling the ball on his chest, swivelling, and poking a shot beyond goalkeeper Moises Munoz - was an example of his individual brilliance that has adhered him to many in the game.

The 28-year-old has collected every medal going at club level with Barcelona, but is yet to replicate this dominance on the world stage.

He cut a dejected figure in last year's extra-time defeat to Germany in the World Cup final, and was similarly forlorn after Chile overcame Argentina on penalties on its own turf in July's Copa America final.

Messi's tally of one goal in six appearances in the latter tournament was particularly disappointing, and brought into question the capability of the forward as captain of his country.

"We received a lot of criticism and much of it was done in a bad way," he told TyC Sports, according to ESPN FC. "We had two finals in one year, which is not easy, this has a lot of merit although it is regrettable that we couldn't win them."

He also said he will represent La Albiceleste for as long as the manager wants him, but has warned his compatriots against complacency and urged them to show battle in future competitions.

"Qualifiers keep getting tougher," the four-time Champions League winner continued. "We have to get off to a good start because we know how complicated it can get.

"We have to keep fighting as we have done up to this point. We reached two finals, and that is not easy as I have said, and we will try to keep fighting for everything."

The late goal in the friendly against Mexico meant Messi is now just five goals shy of Gabriel Batistuta's all-time goal-scoring record with Argentina of 54. The Barca man is not going to get hung up on chasing that tally though.

"That is the least of my thoughts. Of course it is nice because of what it means, but it is not my focus."