Argentina clinched their sixteenth Copa América title thanks to a last-minute goal by Lautaro Martínez in the 112th minute, overcoming Colombia in an emotion-packed final. This victory continues a winning streak that includes an historic treble: Copa América, World Cup, and another Copa América for the Argentinians.
The match was a true test for Lionel Scaloni's squad, who had to overcome a rough start and an injury to Leo Messi in the 65th minute. Nonetheless, the Albiceleste showed, as their coach asserts, that they always find solutions.
The final began with controversy when, four hours before kickoff, a surge of ticketless fans led to stadium access being closed and a nearly 90-minute delay in the match’s start. After much anticipation and tension, the game was decided by the clinical strike of Lautaro Martínez who, with his five goals in the tournament, emerged as the top scorer.
Colombia got off to a better start. Néstor Lorenzo's team, known for playing with intensity and emotion, dominated the first half. Julián Álvarez attempted to open the scoring in the first minute, but it was the Colombians who came closest with a shot from Jhon Córdoba hitting the post and another from Jefferson Lerma forcing a brilliant save from Emiliano Martínez.
Messi, though more active than in previous matches, couldn’t find his rhythm and suffered a hard tackle that left him limping until the end of the first half. Following an extended break due to a performance by Shakira, Colombia maintained the initiative. Arias and Sánchez had clear opportunities, but it was Ángel di María who came closest to scoring for Argentina.
The drama heightened when Messi was injured again and left the field in tears. The introduction of Nicolás González revitalized the Albiceleste, but the match became a battle of errors and interruptions that led to extra time.
In the extra period, Néstor Lorenzo made strategic changes, withdrawing an ineffective James Rodríguez and bringing in Juanfer Quintero. Camilo Vargas kept Colombia in the game with a great save from Nicolás González. Looking for the decisive goal, Lionel Scaloni brought on Lautaro Martínez, and he delivered.
Ultimately, in the 112th minute, Lautaro Martínez stepped up to score the goal that secured the title for Argentina.
Key Moments and Questions from Argentina's Copa América Victory
With Argentina's recent triumph in the Copa América, many fans have questions about the key moments and decisions that led to their victory. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
How did Argentina manage to win despite Messi's injury?
Argentina's depth in talent and strategic substitutions by coach Lionel Scaloni played a crucial role. The introduction of Nicolás González and Lautaro Martínez provided the necessary spark to secure the victory.
Who was the top scorer in the tournament?
Lautaro Martínez emerged as the top scorer of the tournament with five goals, including the decisive goal in the final.
What were the key moments in the final match?
Key moments included Messi's injury in the 65th minute, the strategic substitutions by both teams, and Lautaro Martínez's winning goal in the 112th minute.