Argentina’s Copa America final against Colombia was a gripping, emotional battle that concluded with a thrilling 1-0 victory for Argentina. This triumph adds yet another major title to their impressive collection, following their 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup wins.
The match was filled with drama, showcasing Argentina’s resilience and determination, solidifying their status as one of the greatest soccer dynasties in history.
Messi’s Emotional Exit
Lionel Messi, the heart of the Argentine team, had to leave the game in the 64th minute due to a painful right ankle injury. Despite his injury, Messi’s influence was undeniable. Seeing him in tears on the bench after his exit was heart-wrenching, showing just how much this game meant to him.
Before he left, Messi pushed through the pain, trying to help his team in any way he could.
Di Maria’s Final Match
Angel Di Maria, playing his last match for Argentina, stepped up as captain after Messi’s departure. Di Maria’s passion and leadership were on full display, guiding his team through the tense moments.
His final moment with Messi on the bench was a touching end to his international career.
The Intense Battle
The match was a nail-biter, with both teams fighting fiercely through regular time and into extra time. The first 90 minutes saw several close calls, but neither side could score.
Argentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez nearly scored with a header, and Messi had a shot blocked by Colombia’s Davinson Sanchez.
Lautaro Martinez’s Decisive Goal
As extra time wore on, the tension kept rising. In the 112th minute, Lautaro Martinez, Argentina’s top scorer in this tournament, found the net.
His goal sparked joyous celebrations on the Argentine bench and among their fans, effectively sealing Argentina’s victory.
Fan Disruptions and Resilience
The match was also marred by unruly fans, causing over an hour’s delay as security struggled to contain the situation. Despite this chaos, the players stayed focused, delivering an unforgettable performance.
Colombia’s Efforts
Colombia, with their impressive 28-game unbeaten streak, gave it their all but couldn’t overcome Argentina. This loss marked their second consecutive defeat to Argentina, highlighting Argentina’s recent dominance.
Argentina’s Legacy
This victory cements Argentina’s place as one of soccer’s greatest dynasties. Winning three major titles in three years is a remarkable achievement, showcasing the team’s skill and resilience. Even with Messi’s injury, the team’s unity and determination shone through.
Consecutive Titles
As reigning World Cup champions, Argentina’s back-to-back Copa America titles underscore their legacy. Their success brings immense pride to their fans and is a fitting tribute to Messi, who has been a central figure in Argentine soccer for over a decade.
USA TODAY Sports provided live updates and highlights, capturing every key moment and emotion of the game. From Messi‘s heartbreaking exit to Martinez’s triumphant goal, the final was a masterclass in high-stakes soccer.
In the end, Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final was a testament to their skill, heart, and perseverance. As the players celebrated and Messi watched from the sidelines, it was clear that this win was for Argentina, for Di Maria, and most of all, for Messi.
