Argentina clinches 16th Copa America title with extra-time victory over Colombia
Defending champions Argentina secured a historic 16th Copa America title, defeating Colombia 1-0 in a tense final at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, thanks to a late extra-time goal from Lautaro Martinez.
The match, delayed by over an hour due to ticketless fans attempting to enter the stadium, was tightly contested for 90 minutes before opening up in the extra period. Martinez, who emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, found the net in the 112th minute, expertly lifting the ball over Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas after receiving a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso.
This victory adds to Argentina’s recent successes, following their triumphs in the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America. It also serves as a fitting farewell for Lionel Messi, likely participating in his final international tournament, and for Angel Di Maria, who announced his retirement from international football after this competition.
“This was written, it was this way,” Di Maria expressed after the match. “I dreamed it, and today I am leaving with a title.”
Colombia started strong, pressing high and nearly scoring in the 7th minute when Jhon Cordoba hit the post. They continued to apply pressure with several attempts, but Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez stood firm, making key saves.
Messi suffered an ankle injury in the 36th minute but managed to play through the discomfort until he was substituted in the 66th minute. Di Maria later reflected on Messi’s contribution, saying, “Messi had to leave because of that ankle problem, but finally we were able to give him some joy.”
Despite Colombia’s efforts and a disallowed goal, Argentina maintained their composure, pushing forward in extra time. After testing Vargas with various attempts, Martinez finally broke the deadlock, igniting wild celebrations among the Argentine fans.
With this victory, Argentina not only solidifies their dominance in South American football but also celebrates the legacies of veteran players like Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi, both set to conclude their international careers on a high note.
