Argentina Clinches Record 16th Copa America Title

Argentina, the defending champions, secured their 16th Copa America title with a 1-0 victory over Colombia, thanks to a late extra-time goal from Lautaro Martinez. The thrilling match took place at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday.

Read More: Lionel Messi Leaves Copa América Final in Tears

The game, delayed by over an hour due to a security breach with thousands of fans attempting to enter without tickets, remained tightly contested during regular time. However, the action heated up during the extra period.

Martinez, the tournament's leading scorer, capitalized on a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso in the 112th minute. He skillfully chipped the ball over Colombia's goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, igniting wild celebrations among the Argentine fans.

This victory adds to Argentina's recent successes, following their triumphs at the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America. It also provides an ideal sendoff for Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, likely playing in his final international tournament.

Colombia began the match with high intensity, pressing Argentina early. Jhon Cordoba hit the post in the seventh minute, and Emiliano Martinez made crucial saves from Jefferson Lerma and Richard Rios. Messi suffered an ankle injury in the 36th minute after a collision with Santiago Arias. Although he continued to play, he was clearly hampered and eventually limped off in the 66th minute.

Colombia remained on the offensive in the second half, with close attempts from Arias and Davinson Sanchez. Argentina, despite losing Messi, grew stronger as the game progressed. They had a goal disallowed for offside but continued to pressure Colombia.

In extra time, Argentina's persistence paid off. Nico Gonzalez tested Vargas before Martinez's decisive goal. This win also ended Colombia's 28-match unbeaten streak, their last defeat also coming against Argentina in February 2022.

Argentina's Copa America victory marks another milestone in their illustrious football history, showcasing their resilience and skill on the international stage.

🏆 #CopaAmérica

🔥¡¡CAMPEONES OTRA VEZ!!🔥

La Copa se queda en casa 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/IrlUCApOCr

— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) July 15, 2024

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