Lautaro Martinez scored an extra-time winner as Argentina defeated Colombia 1-0 to secure a record 16th Copa America title at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.
The game, which was marred by security and crowd issues causing an 82-minute delay, was ultimately decided by a quality finish from Martinez, his fifth goal of the tournament.
This victory marked Argentina’s third consecutive major tournament title, following their 2021 Copa America win and their 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.
However, the celebrations were bittersweet as Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, left the game injured in the 66th minute and watched the remainder from the bench, visibly distressed. It was also an emotional farewell for Angel Di Maria in his final game for the national team.
For Colombia, whose only title came in the 2001 Copa America, it was a disappointing night with little working for Nestor Lorenzo’s team.
Chaos erupted at the stadium entrance, with organizers blaming fans trying to enter without tickets, while fans criticized the inefficient entry system. The situation was alarming, with some fans needing medical attention for heat exhaustion, but it was largely resolved when the gates were opened without checks, allowing the game to proceed.
Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba hit the bottom of the post with a speculative shot in the seventh minute, but neither side found their rhythm early on.
Di Maria connected with Messi in the 20th minute with a low ball into the box, but Messi’s left-footed shot was saved by Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas.
Colombia appeared more energetic in the opening period, nearly scoring in the 33rd minute when Jefferson Lerma’s 25-yard shot forced Emiliano Martinez into a diving save.
