Argentina Beats Colombia to Win Third Straight Major Tournament

Oluwasegun SanusiJuly 15, 20241 Mins read537

Argentina secured their record 16th Copa América title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Colombia at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, a match marred by security issues and an injury scare for Lionel Messi.

The game, which suffered an 82-minute delay due to crowd control problems, was ultimately decided by Lautaro Martinez’s decisive goal in extra time.

Martinez, netting his fifth goal of the tournament, ensured Argentina’s triumph, adding to their 2021 Copa América and 2022 World Cup victories.

The win, however, was overshadowed by an alarming moment in the second half with Messi’s injury scenario in the 64th minute, clutching his right ankle.

After signalling distress to the Argentina bench, trainers attended to Messi for several minutes before being helped off the field.

Visibly frustrated, Messi removed his captain’s armband and shoe, revealing a severely swollen ankle, and was replaced by Nicolás González. Messi was forced off the field, an emotional scene as he sat on the bench in tears.

Earlier in the match, Messi had also gone down holding his right ankle following a strong challenge in the first half.

Despite these setbacks, Argentina managed to hold off a determined Colombian side.

Colombia, whose sole Copa América title was in 2001, struggled to find its rhythm. An early attempt by Jhon Corboba hit the post in the seventh minute, and a powerful shot by Jefferson Lerma forced a diving save from Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez in the 33rd minute. Despite several opportunities, Colombia couldn’t capitalize.

Angel Di Maria was a standout for Argentina, nearly scoring with a low cross to Messi in the 20th minute and later testing Colombian keeper Camilo Vargas with a signature run.

Argentina found the breakthrough they needed as the game progressed into extra time. Leandro Paredes won possession in midfield, setting up Giovani Lo Celso for a perfect pass to Martinez, who confidently slotted home the winner.

Source AP

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