ARGENTINA WIN THEIR SECOND COPA AMÉRICA IN A ROW
Argentina secured their 16th Copa América title with a dramatic 1-0 win against Colombia, thanks to Lautaro Martínez’s decisive goal in the 112th minute. The match, held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, saw defending champions Argentina claim a record-breaking victory.
Match Highlights
Lautaro Martínez, the tournament’s leading goalscorer and an Inter Milan striker, scored the crucial goal in extra time. He received a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso and lifted his shot over the advancing Colombia goalkeeper, Camilo Vargas. This goal marked Martínez’s fifth of the tournament, securing him the Copa América 2024 Golden Boot.
Key Moments
- Martínez’s Decisive Strike: The 112th-minute goal was Martínez’s most critical, capping off a grueling match and ensuring Argentina’s victory. His late strike highlighted his standout performance throughout the tournament.
- Lionel Messi’s Triumph: Despite being forced off early due to an injury, Messi celebrated another major win, adding this Copa title to his collection following Argentina’s World Cup victory.
- Ángel Di María’s Farewell: Di María, the unsung hero of the match, played his last game in an Argentina jersey, contributing to the team’s success one final time.
Messi Injury
Messi crying after a non-contact injury knocks him out of the game, perhaps his last for Argentina. Crushing.
Legacy and Future
This victory marks three consecutive titles for Argentina, with a World Cup triumph in between. As Messi watched from the sidelines, his teammates rose to the occasion, ensuring that Argentina’s dominance continues. Though Messi’s era may be nearing its end, Argentina’s legacy of excellence in international football persists.
Argentina has won the Copa América in the following years:
1913, 1917, 1921, 1925, 1927, 1937, 1945, 1946, 1991, 1993, 1999, 2004, 2007, 2021, 2024
