NEW DELHI: Argentina triumphed in the Copa America 2024 final, claiming their record 16th title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Colombia at Florida’s Hard Rock Stadium. The decisive moment came in extra time when substitute Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, latched onto a precise pass from Giovani Lo Celso and calmly chipped the ball over Colombia’s goalkeeper, sparking jubilant celebrations among Argentine fans. Martinez’s goal, his fifth of the tournament, not only secured the win but also earned him the coveted Copa America 2024 Golden Boot.
The match, which began over an hour late due to crowd issues, was an intense affair from the outset. Colombia started strongly, with Jhon Cordoba hitting the post early on and their midfielders testing Argentina’s defence with long-range efforts. Argentina, however, weathered the storm and created their chances despite Lionel Messi sustaining an ankle injury in the first half. Despite Messi’s departure, Argentina continued to press forward, with a goal disallowed for offside before the match headed into extra time.
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In the additional 30 minutes, Argentina’s persistence paid off as Martinez broke the deadlock with a clinical finish. The victory not only secured Argentina’s third consecutive major title, following their 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup wins but also ended Colombia’s impressive 28-game unbeaten streak.
For Martinez, whose goal sealed Argentina’s historic win, the moment was especially poignant amidst the emotional backdrop of Messi’s injury. The Argentine captain, initially devastated as he left the field, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions—from despair to elation—watching his teammates secure the championship. Despite challenges and setbacks, including Messi’s injury, Argentina’s resolve and teamwork shone through, reaffirming their status as football giants. As the curtain potentially closes on the Messi era, Argentina’s legacy in international football continues to thrive, buoyed by moments of brilliance and resilience on the grandest stage.