Defending champions Argentina clinched their record 16th Copa America title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Colombia in an intense final at Florida’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.
Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, secured the win with a late extra-time goal in the 112th minute, capitalizing on a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso. Martinez lifted his shot over advancing goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, as reported by Reuters.
This latest triumph adds to Argentina’s recent successes at the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America, marking their third major international title in just three years. It also serves as a fitting farewell for Lionel Messi, widely regarded as Argentina’s greatest player, in what is likely his final international tournament amid rumors of retirement.
The match was delayed for over an hour due to unruly fans without tickets breaching security gates well before kickoff.
During the game, Messi, 37, suffered a knee injury in the 64th minute, prompting his substitution. He visibly struggled as he left the pitch, his right foot swollen from an ankle knock sustained earlier in the match.
Colombia, despite their 28-game unbeaten streak, could not maintain their momentum and suffered their second consecutive defeat against Argentina in recent encounters.
