The summer of international delight continues for Argentina as the national team conquered its 16ᵗʰ Copa America title with a 1-0 victory over Colombia. From delays to chaos to emotions, the final had everything and ultimately it was the superior individual quality that led to Colombia’s failure. Substitute, Lautaro Martinez bagged the winner in the second half of extra time to seal the continental glory.
The Colombian players will have themselves to blame for not being able to achieve their objective. The nation had more than enough chances in front of goal but could not take any one of them. Such a shortcoming was always going to be massive against a team of Argentina’s quality. Nonetheless, the Colombians can be proud of their national team for their marvelous run to the final.
Lionel Messi leaves the pitch in tears
All eyes in the final were on the performance levels of Lionel Messi. One of the greatest players of all time was relatively off his usual pace throughout the tournament due to a leg injury which also kept him out for one game. He was slowly coming back to his best with a wonderful display against Canada in the semi-final and looked to make the final his own.
It was not going to be an easy task for Argentina and Lionel Messi considering the tendency of Colombia to play rough and hard. For large parts of the final, Messi found it tough but the worst moment came in the 66ᵗʰ minute when the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was forced off the field due to a horrifying ankle injury. Messi could not control his tears at the moment. The end, though, was sweet enough for Lionel Messi as his team lifted the Copa America title.
Argentina’s dominance in world soccer continues
The great nation of Argentina has always been one of the top sides in the history of major international tournaments. The heritage of success in the latter half of the 20ᵗʰ century shaped tremendous expectations and hopes from the current generation. Until 2021, the fate of Argentina did not please the fans as the players fell short time after time at the crucial hurdles.
However, the last three years have witnessed a complete reverse in the fortunes as the 2024 Copa America marks the fourth title since 2021 for Argentina. Coach, Lionel Scaloni has been able to implement a plan which flows through Lionel Messi but also optimizes the traits of those around him. No other soccer association has even come close to Argentina’s recent success which does not show any signs of stopping.