Argentina clinched a record 16th Copa America title by defeating Colombia 1-0, thanks to an extra-time goal by Lautaro Martinez.
The final, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, was delayed for over an hour due to the chaos caused by thousands of ticketless fans attempting to enter the stadium.
Martinez, who was substituted in during extra time, scored the decisive goal in the 112th minute. He received a precise pass from Giovani Lo Celso and lifted the ball over Colombia’s goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, leading to exuberant celebrations.
This victory follows Argentina’s successes at the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America, providing an ideal sendoff for Lionel Messi, likely playing in his last international tournament. This win puts Argentina ahead of Uruguay, with whom they were previously tied at 15 Copa titles.
The match also marked the final international appearance for Angel Di Maria and potentially for 36-year-old defender Nicolas Otamendi. Di Maria expressed his joy and gratitude, highlighting his dream of ending his career with a title.
Due to security concerns, CONMEBOL delayed the match’s start three times. Video footage showed scuffles between security and fans trying to breach the stadium gates. Several fans were ejected from the stadium, which is set to host matches in the 2026 World Cup.
Despite organizational issues throughout the tournament, including clashes between Uruguay’s players and Colombian fans and an assistant referee collapsing in a group stage match, the final proceeded with high stakes and tensions.
Colombia started strongly, with Jhon Cordoba hitting the post early and other attempts saved by Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez. Messi sustained an ankle injury in the first half and was substituted in the 66th minute. Argentina had a goal disallowed for offside, and the match went into extra time.
Martinez’s goal ended Colombia’s record 28-match unbeaten streak. Colombia’s defender Davinson Sanchez expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the team’s effort and desire to win for their country. Despite the loss, Colombia’s captain James Rodriguez was named player of the tournament, having broken Messi’s record with six assists in a single Copa America edition.
