Lionel Messi’s side successfully defended their Copa America title after Lautaro Martinez fired the ball into the back of the net, securing Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia. This win at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium marked Argentina’s record 16th Copa America title.
Match Highlights:
Messi, emotional after being substituted in the second half, watched as Martinez ensured he ended with his second Copa America title in the twilight of his career. The victory also brought an end to Colombia’s impressive 28-match unbeaten streak.
The game kicked off with Argentina aggressively targeting Colombia’s box, but the Colombian defense held firm. Colombia quickly countered, with winger Luis Diaz testing Argentina’s goalkeeper Martinez, who made a straightforward save. James Rodriguez also came close with an acrobatic attempt that hit the post.
The match saw continuous end-to-end action, with Argentina’s goalkeeper pulling off a fingertip save to deny Jefferson Lerma’s long-range effort. Messi sustained a heavy knock from Arias but continued playing with a slight limp, contributing to a goalless first half despite Colombia having better chances.
Early in the second half, Argentina’s Alexis Mac Allister penetrated the box but was thwarted by a Colombian clearance. Angel Di Maria’s shot also tested Vargas, who made a crucial save. Messi was brought down again in the 64th minute, aggravating his earlier injury and leaving the pitch in tears, replaced by Nico Gonzalez.
Argentina thought they had taken the lead when Gonzalez scored, but the goal was ruled offside. The match appeared to be heading for penalties after a goalless 90 minutes, but the introduction of Lautaro Martinez and Giovani Lo Celso changed the game’s course.
Lo Celso set up Martinez in open space inside the box, and the Inter Milan striker found the far corner, sealing Argentina’s 1-0 win. Colombia made a late appeal for a penalty, but after a VAR review, the call was denied, concluding the match.
Argentina’s triumph highlighted their resilience and Messi’s enduring legacy in football, as he and his team lifted the Copa America trophy once again.
