Argentina had the initiative and overpowered their opponents early in the game. However, Colombia was the team that created the first opportunity. In the seventh minute, Jhon Cordoba took advantage of his teammate’s wall to shoot and hit the post. Argentina’s defence continued to create chances in the 13th minute. Carlos Cuesta’s close-range header was not difficult enough to beat Emiliano Martinez.

Colombia isn’t afraid to challenge Argentina.

Argentina’s first chance came in the 20th minute. Messi received the ball in the penalty area and fired a powerful shot. Julian Alvarez jumped to prevent it, but accidentally blocked the ball, losing Argentina a chance to open the scoring.

In the 32nd minute, Emiliano Martinez’s goal was shaken once more. The Aston Villa custodian had to fly as far as he could to stop Lerma’s “cannon shot” from about 20 metres away.

Messi played through the pain.

Messi played through the pain.Messi played through the pain.Messi played through the pain.

Messi played through his pain.

Messi was injured in the last few minutes of the first half after taking a kick from a Colombian defender. Despite his distress, the celebrity born in 1987 continued to play. Outside the pitch, coach Lionel Scaloni allowed Lautaro Martinez to warm up, just in case.

The first half ended 0-0. Argentina did not register a single shot on goal.

Argentina upped their attack once the second half began. Angel Di Maria received two opportunities for the blue and white striped team. However, the Benfica star was unable to overcome the efforts of the opposing custodian and defenders.

Argentina suffered a significant blow during the tie when Lionel Messi was forced to leave the pitch. The celebrity born in 1987 was unable to finish the game owing to pain at the end of the first half. When Messi returned to the technical area, he covered his face in tears.

In the 76th minute, Messi’s replacement, Nicolas Gonzalez, scored against Colombia. While Argentina’s players, spectators, and coaching staff were celebrating, the linesman raised his flag to signal an offside by one of the reigning champions.

The score stayed at 0-0 till the end of the official time. Argentina attacked strongly in the first extra time, but they only had one chance. Goalkeeper Vargas saved Nicolas Gonzalez’s close-range shot.

Lautaro played the hero from the bench.Lautaro played the hero from the bench.

Lautaro played the hero from the bench.

In the 112th minute, Paredes made an accurate interception in the centre of the pitch, allowing Argentina to counterattack. Lo Celso passed the ball somewhat wide to Lautaro, who sprinted down and finished diagonally to open the scoring.

Argentina’s three goal scorers, Paredes, Lo Celso, and Lautaro, all appeared from the bench in the 97th minute.

Argentina won the 2024 Copa América final. Messi and his teammates continued their winning streak with a third straight major championship (Copa America 2021, World Cup 2022, and Copa America 2024). This feat is comparable to what the Spanish team’s golden generation accomplished more than a decade ago (Euro 2008, 2012, and World Cup 2010).

Argentina also eclipsed Uruguay for the most Copa America titles (16).

List of players on the field for both teams.List of players on the field for both teams.