Copa America- Late Start and Early Setback
In a match delayed by 1 hour and 22 minutes due to crowd trouble at Hard Rock Stadium, Argentina triumphed over Colombia to secure their record 16th Copa America title. This victory marks Argentina’s third consecutive major title following their wins in the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, matching Spain’s achievement of winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships around the 2010 World Cup.
Messi’s Injury and Argentina’s Resilience
Lionel Messi suffered a non-contact leg injury in the 64th minute, visibly distressed as he sat on the bench. Despite this setback, Argentina persevered, with Lautaro Martínez scoring the decisive goal in the 112th minute from Giovani Lo Celso’s perfect through pass. Martínez ran to the bench to hug Messi, celebrating the goal that secured the championship.
The Match’s Progression
Andre Penner/AP
Colombia’s 28-game unbeaten streak, dating back to February 2022, came to an end with this loss. Despite an aggressive start from Colombia, forcing Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to make four saves in the first half, Argentina began to threaten more in the second half. Nicolás Tagliafico’s goal in the 75th minute was ruled offside, and Nicolás González, who replaced Messi, was stopped by Colombia’s goalkeeper Camilo Vargas in the 95th minute.
Crowd Trouble and Delays
Carl De Souza/AFP/Getty Images
The start of the match was delayed due to crowd control issues outside the stadium, with numerous fans breaching security gates. This incident followed a brawl involving Uruguay players and Colombia fans after their semifinal match in Charlotte, North Carolina. Fans were seen climbing fences and railings to enter the championship match, complicating ticket verification efforts.
Conclusion
Argentina’s victory over Colombia not only secured their 16th Copa America title but also continued their impressive run of major tournament successes. Despite Lionel Messi’s injury, the team’s resilience and Martínez’s late goal ensured their place in football history.
