A superb goal from Lautaro Martinez in extra time helped Argentina clinch their record 16th Copa America title, defeating Colombia 1-0 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Monday (July 15).
Messi appeared to sustain a non-contact injury while running and falling in the 64th minute and covered his face with his hands when he sat on the bench. Martnez later ran to that bench to hug his captain after the goal that propelled Argentina to its record 16th Copa title on Sunday night.
In a match that started 1 hour, 20 minutes late because of crowd trouble at Hard Rock Stadium, Argentina won its third straight major title following the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup and matched Spain, which won the 2008 and 2012 European Championships around the 2010 World Cup.
Argentina also stopped Colombia’s 28-game unbeaten streak dating to a February 2022 loss to the Albiceleste.
Martnez entered in the 97th minute and scored from Giovani Lo Celso’s perfect through pass. Just inside the penalty area, to Martnez sent a right-foot shot through the upraised arms of sliding goalkeeper Camilo Vargas for his 29th international goal, his tournament-high fifth.
— Xavier Guerrero (@XGLAVOZ) July 15, 2024
Key Moments in Copa America Final 2024
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 15, 2024
Ball Possession: Colombia had 57% of ball possession after 35 minutes, compared to Argentina’s 43%.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2024
First Published: Jul 15 2024 | 10:17 AM IST