Argentina Cements Their Greatness in Historic 2024 Copa America Final

Argentina cemented their status as one of the greatest national teams ever by defeating Colombia 1-0 in extra time in the 2024 Copa America final. It is Argentina’s third major trophy in four years, extending their dominance in international football.

The final was full with challenges, beginning with multiple delays totaling an hour and 15 minutes as fans rushed Hard Rock Stadium without tickets causing multiple logistical challenges for security.

The game saw a significant setback when Lionel Messi was substituted shortly after the hour mark due to a severe right ankle injury. Despite this, Messi participated in the post-game celebrations, albeit with difficulty, as he could barely put weight on his swollen ankle.

Veterans Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi, both retiring from international football after this tournament, were instrumental in rallying the team to victory. They joined Messi in lifting the trophy, a fitting farewell for the “old guard.”

The decisive moment came in the 112th minute, thanks to super-sub Lautaro Martinez, who also secured the Golden Boot with five goals in the tournament. Martinez received a perfect through ball from Giovani Lo Celso, deftly controlled it, and chipped it over Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas into the net. This goal not only won the match but also changed the narrative of Martinez’s career, previously criticized for not delivering in crucial moments. Martinez won the golden boot award with five goals in the tournament.

Martinez’s performance was crucial, especially given that he started only two of Argentina’s six games in the tournament. Despite this, he outscored all other players, with Venezuela’s Salomon Rondon being the closest competitor with three goals. However, Colombia’s James Rodriguez was named Player of the Tournament for his six assists and one goal

The match had its tense moments, particularly in the first half when Colombia dominated and created several scoring opportunities. Jefferson Lerma’s shot went wide in the 32nd minute, Santiago Arias missed another chance in the 47th minute, and Jhon Cordoba’s effort hit the post early in the game. Despite their strong performance, Colombia’s 28-game winning streak ended, a streak that began after their last loss to Argentina in the 2021 Copa America.

Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, has now etched his name among the greats in football history, having led the team to two Copa America titles, a World Cup, and the Finalissima. His strategic triple substitution in extra time, bringing in Paredes, Lo Celso, and Martinez, proved decisive in securing the win.

Argentina and Messi have nothing else to prove. They have won back-to-back Copa America’s with a Finalissima and World Cup title sandwiched in between. Messi now has more trophies than anyone in history with 45 and Argentina with more Copa Americas than anyone in history. Messi and Argentina have completed futbol.

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