Argentina Overcomes Colombia for Record 16th Copa America Championship

Argentina secured its second consecutive Copa America championship, defeating Colombia 1-0 on Sunday night with Lautaro Martinez scoring the decisive goal in the 112th minute. The victory, which took place at Hard Rock Stadium, marks Argentina's record 16th Copa America title.

Lionel Messi suffered a leg injury in the 64th minute, appearing to sustain a non-contact injury. He was visibly distressed, covering his face with his hands as he sat on the bench. Despite this setback, Martinez celebrated his goal by hugging Messi on the bench.

The match, which started 1 hour and 22 minutes late due to crowd trouble, saw Argentina win its third major title in a row. This streak includes the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, equaling Spain's achievement of winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships around the 2010 World Cup. Argentina also ended Colombia's 28-game unbeaten streak, which dated back to February 2022.

Martinez, who entered the game in the 97th minute, scored his tournament-high fifth goal from a precise pass by Giovani Lo Celso. Martinez's right-footed shot from just inside the penalty area went through the arms of sliding goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, marking his 29th international goal.

Messi, who appeared to be limping after the match, called upon his senior teammates Nicolas Otamendi and Angel Di Maria to lift the trophy with him. Di Maria, who announced his retirement from the national team, reflected on the victory: "The truth is, it's hard to describe. It was written like that. I told the guys last night at dinner that I dreamt it."

Making his 39th and possibly final Copa America appearance at age 37, Messi scored one goal in the tournament. He continued to play after an ankle injury in the first half but was forced to leave the game after a second-half injury.

The start of the match was delayed due to crowd control issues, with fans breaching security gates. This incident followed a brawl involving Uruguay players and Colombia fans after the semifinal match in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Colombia initially displayed more aggression, forcing Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to make four saves in the first half. Argentina increased its offensive efforts in the second half, and although they had a goal ruled offside in the 75th minute, they eventually secured the win in extra time.

The playing conditions were affected by heavily watered grass following a halftime performance by Colombian pop star Shakira, causing players to lose their footing during the second half.

Colombia's James Rodriguez was named the best player of the tournament.