Soccer fans gather to catch a glimpse of Copa stars

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The world's top-ranked soccer player drew a big crowd Monday night at a Galleria-area hotel ahead of the Copa America semifinal match at NRG Stadium.

NRG is sold out for the match between USA and Argentina. Monday night, fans of both teams crowded the sidewalk outside the St. Regis Hotel hoping to catch of glimpse of Lionel Messi. Messi is the top-ranked soccer player.

SEE MORE: Meet Argentine soccer star Leo Messi

"He's insane. He's not from this earth. I swear," said Oscar Rodriguez.

"It's one of my dreams. We came from Orlando, Florida. Hopefully we get to see them. That would be awesome, " said Clara Martucci giddily. "I would love to take a picture with him. That would be awesome."

"We're hoping to see Messi, but hopefully the United States advances tomorrow," said Roger Escobar holding a jersey. "We always want the CONCACAF team to beat the South American team," he explained.

This is the first time the soccer tournament has been played outside South America. Clint Dempsey and Team USA are considered underdogs.

The match is at 8pm Tuesday night at NRG Stadium.