Lautaro Martinez scored the decisive goal in the 112th minute to give Argentina a 1-0 victory over Colombia in the 2024 Copa América final. The Inter Milan striker’s strike, assisted by Giovani Lo Celso, proved to be the difference-maker in a tightly contested match at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The victory marked Argentina’s 16th Copa América title, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. However, the match was overshadowed by an injury to captain Lionel Messi, who was forced off in the 64th minute with an apparent leg injury. Messi was visibly emotional as he left the field, potentially signaling the end of his illustrious international career.
The start of the game was delayed by over an hour due to crowd issues, with ticketless fans attempting to breach the stadium’s security. This led to clashes between fans, police, and stadium staff, with several supporters requiring medical attention.
The match itself was a cagey affair, with few clear-cut chances for either side. Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba hit the woodwork in the first half, but the game remained goalless at the end of regulation. In the extra-time period, Martinez’s clinical finish from Lo Celso’s through ball proved to be the difference, securing Argentina’s third successive major tournament triumph following their 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa América victories.
Despite the emotional exit of Messi, Argentina’s triumph underscored their depth and resilience, with Martinez emerging as the hero. The 26-year-old striker’s five-goal haul also earned him the Golden Boot award, cementing his status as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
LA DECIMOSEXTA. pic.twitter.com/5ChlcjxpJw
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ (@CopaAmerica) July 15, 2024
