Copa America final: Argentina seals record 16th title with 1-0 win over Columbia

Argentina triumphed over Colombia in the Copa America 2024 final held in Miami, Florida, at the Hard Rock Stadium.

1. Lautaro Martinez Ends Colombia's Streak
   Lautaro Martinez scored the decisive goal to end Colombia’s 28-match unbeaten run, securing Argentina its 16th Copa America title. Notably, the last defeat Colombia faced was also against Argentina, courtesy of a Lautaro Martinez strike!

2. Introduction of Extra-Time
   For the first time in the Copa America 2024, extra-time was introduced as Argentina and Colombia battled to find the first goal of the final.

3. Lionel Messi’s Brief Appearance
   Lionel Messi’s time on the pitch was cut short due to a persistent ankle injury, forcing him to be substituted. The forward was seen in tears at the dugout, visibly distressed.

4. Colombia Dominates Possession Early On
   During the first 35 minutes, Colombia had more possession, controlling 57% of the ball compared to Argentina.

5. Delayed Start Due to Crowd Issues
   The final’s kick-off was delayed by 45 minutes, as announced by CONMEBOL on X. The delay was caused by fans rushing the gates, with many ticketless individuals attempting to enter the stadium.

6. Argentina’s Quest for a Record-Breaking Title
   Argentina, the defending champion, aimed to break the record for the most Copa America titles, currently tied with 15 titles.

7. Colombia's Historical Achievement
   Colombia has only won the Copa America title once, back in 2001.

1. Overall Meetings
   The two teams have faced each other 42 times in all competitions. Argentina, the defending champions, have been dominant with 25 wins, while Colombia has won nine times, and eight games have ended in draws.

2. Copa America Clashes
   In their 15 Copa America encounters, Argentina has the upper hand with 10 wins, while Colombia has three wins and two draws.

3. 2021 Copa America Semifinal
   Their most recent Copa America clash was in the 2021 semifinals, where Argentina won 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

4. Recent Form
   Colombia has managed only one win in their last 12 meetings against Argentina, with that victory coming in the group stage of the 2019 Copa America.

1. Best Player of Copa America 2024
   James Rodriguez was named the best player of the tournament, contributing six assists and one goal.

2. Golden Boot Winner
   Lautaro Martinez claimed the Golden Boot with five goals.

3. Best Goalkeeper
   Emiliano Martinez was awarded the best goalkeeper, having kept five clean sheets.

4. Fair Play Award
   The Fair Play Award went to Colombia.

Lionel Messi achieved a new milestone by winning his 45th senior trophy with Argentina’s Copa America 2024 victory, surpassing Dani Alves to become the player with the most trophies in football history.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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