Argentina Clinches Record 16th Copa America Amidst Chaos.
Argentina secured their 16th Copa America title with a dramatic win over Colombia, but the match was overshadowed by significant disruptions outside the stadium in Miami, delaying the kick-off by 80 minutes.
Lautaro Martinez emerged as the hero, scoring in the second half of extra time from a precise pass by Giovani Lo Celso. The victory was bittersweet for Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi, who was forced to leave the pitch in tears after injuring himself midway through the second half while chasing the ball. Despite his early exit, Messi was seen celebrating Argentina’s third successive major tournament victory at the final whistle.
The match at the Hard Rock Stadium was marred by chaos as ticketless fans attempted to force their way into the ground, causing significant delays and clashes with police. Several arrests were made, and some supporters required medical attention due to the Miami heat.
Additionally, the half-time break was unusually extended to 25 minutes to accommodate a concert by Colombian popstar Shakira, a decision criticised by Colombia’s manager Nestor Lorenzo beforehand.
The game itself offered few clear chances in the sweltering conditions. Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba came closest in the first half, hitting the woodwork. Argentina thought they had taken the lead 15 minutes from the end, but Nicolas Tagliafico’s effort was disallowed for offside. Ultimately, Martinez’s decisive goal not only secured the win but also earned him the Golden Boot with five goals in the tournament.
What Now for Messi After Copa America Glory?
Lionel Messi, who had never won a senior international tournament until the age of 34, has now won three in three years, following the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup. The final was held at the Hard Rock Stadium, just over 20 miles from Fort Lauderdale, where Messi’s Inter Miami club plays.
Before the tournament, the 37-year-old had not decided whether he would continue to play for Argentina until the next World Cup, which will be hosted in the US, Canada, and Mexico. His performance in this Copa America was modest, scoring only once in the semi-final win over Canada and missing a penalty in the quarter-final shootout against Ecuador. Messi’s injury in the final raises questions about whether this will be his last major tournament.
The match also marked the end of Angel di Maria’s international career. The 145-times capped player had announced his retirement from international football after this tournament.
Trouble Before the Game
The pre-match delays at the Hard Rock Stadium, a venue for the 2026 World Cup, were a significant setback for organisers. In the semi-finals in Charlotte, there were clashes between Uruguay players and Colombia fans over safety concerns for their families, an issue that persisted in Miami. Families of players were caught up in the chaos, with Alejandro Garnacho’s brother, Roberto, expressing his frustration on social media about the disorganisation and lack of security.
Colombia’s Wait Continues
Colombia, unbeaten in 28 games over two years, hoped to end their Copa America drought. Their last and only triumph came in 2001 on home soil. Despite having chances, including Cordoba’s early effort that hit the post, they could not overcome the resilient Argentine side.
Argentina’s victory not only sets a record but also underscores their dominance in South American football, while Colombia’s wait for another Copa America title goes on.
