Copa America: Argentina Win Trophy For Sixteenth Time

 

Argentina are the champions of the Copa America 2024 after a hard-earned 1-0 victory against Colombia with an incredible extra-time finish from Lautaro Martinez. 

The champions took the lead deep into the extra time as Martinez inspired a counter after one-two ball pass with Cristian Romero, latched onto Giovani Lo Celso's pass and struck a right-footed shot from inside the box to beat Camilo Vargas. 

Meanwhile, the game should not have gone the distance had Nicolas Gonzalez's goal stood when he slide-footed home Nicolas Tagliafico's cross. But, the goal was ruled out for Tagliafico's offisde position. 

Colombia were staunch in the defensive approach and yet seemed capable of making something out of their set pieces. They had moments of scoring chances and tried a couple of long range shots to beat the Argentine's defence. 

Lionel Messi could not finish the game with the team following a twisted ankle injury in the second half and he was substituted. The Inter Miami forward was distraught and emotional whilst on the sideline bench. 

Despite the loss, Colombia have never come this far in any major tournmanet, and until this final, they have remained unbeaten through 28 matches. Having defended the title back-to-back for their 16th Copa America victory, they are now the biggest winners in the championship followed Uruguay with 15.