Argentina crowned Copa America champions for record 16th time after defeating Colombia
Argentina won a record 16th Copa America title by beating Colombia 1-0 thanks to an extra-time goal from Lautaro Martinez on Sunday after the final was delayed for over an hour due to thousands of ticketless fans trying to get into stadium.
Martinez, who came off the bench in extra time, latched onto a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso before lifting his effort over advancing Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas in the 112th minute to spark wild celebrations at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.
Argentina’s latest title comes on the back of their triumphs at the 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa America, and gives eight-times Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi the perfect sendoff in what is likely his last international tournament.
The win, which saw Argentina move ahead of Uruguay after the pair had been tied on 15 Copa titles, marked Angel di Maria’s final international match.
Defender Nicolas Otamendi, 36, is also set to end his international career.
#CopaAmérica individual awards.