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Lionel Messi's Argentina has won the Copa América for the second time in a row. The Albiceleste, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, triumphed in the final against Colombia thanks to a goal by Inter's striker Lautaro Martinez in the 112th minute of the second extra time. At the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, USA, the Selección lifted their sixteenth Copa América, surpassing Uruguay, which remains at 15 (Brazil is far behind with 9 trophies).
Argentina proved to be the strongest team in the tournament for various reasons. First of all, their defensive solidity: they conceded only one goal, by Ecuador's Kevin Rodriguez in the 91st minute of the quarter-finals (where Argentina eventually triumphed 4-2 on penalties). From goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to central defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, to full-backs Nahuel Molina and Marcos Acuna, Argentina built an impenetrable defensive wall.
Additionally, they possessed immense quality from midfield upwards. With players like Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Angel Di Maria (in his last dance with Argentina), Alexis Mac Allister, and an offensive lineup featuring Leo Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Julian Alvarez, they showcased extraordinary talent.
The big surprise was Colombia at the final, with a rejuvenated James Rodriguez returning to his 2014 World Cup form. The Cafeteros managed to surpass Brazil in the group stage (a disappointing performance by the green and gold team of Vinicius, who were eliminated by Uruguay in a penalty shootout in the quarter-finals), then crushed Panama 5-0 and eliminated the highly-rated Uruguay team of Marcelo Bielsa in the semifinals. But in the end, it's always Argentina celebrating. With the 2024 Copa América, Messi has reached 45 career trophies. A record, unmatched by anyone else.
