Brazil's Neymar supporting Argentina in Copa America semi-final

Brazil international Neymar has issued words of encouragement to former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi ahead of Argentina's Copa America semi-final.

Argentina face Colombia on Wednesday to fight for a place in the Copa America final, where the winner will face Brazil, who booked their spot after a 1-0 win against Peru.

A major international trophy still eludes Messi, and this year he is attempting to inspire his nation to a fourth Copa America final, previously finishing runners-up in 2007, 2015 and 2016.

Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar is backing his former teammate and told reporters: "I want Argentina, I am cheering them on. I have friends there and in the final Brazil will win."

Argentina last faced Brazil in a competitive fixture in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America, when Roberto Firmino and Gabriel Jesus scored to send Brazil on their way to their ninth title.

Messi is currently on track to win this year's Copa America Golden Boot, leading the way after scoring four goals so far.