Florida: Defending champions Argentina secured their record 16th Copa America title by defeating Colombia 1-0, thanks to an extra-time goal from substitute Lautaro Martinez at Hard Rock Stadium, yesterday.

Martinez, the tournament’s leading scorer, received a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso and lifted his shot over the advancing Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, in the 112th minute, igniting wild celebrations amongst Argentina fans. Lautaro Martinez’s goal was his fifth in the tournament, cementing his position as the top scorer and earning him the Copa America 2024  Golden Boot.

Colombia started the match with high pressure, and Jhon Cordoba hit the post in the seventh minute. Jefferson Lerma and Richard Rios also had long-range efforts saved by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. In the 36th minute, Messi appeared to hurt his ankle after a collision with Santiago Arias. Though he got back on his feet after receiving treatment, he was clearly hampered for the rest of the half. Colombia continued their offensive in the second half, with Arias and Davinson Sanchez coming close to scoring. Argentina absorbed the pressure well but suffered a setback in the 66th minute when Messi limped off due to his ankle injury. The defending champions kept pushing forward in extra time, testing Vargas with a shot from Nico Gonzalez before Martinez finally found the breakthrough.

With this victory, Argentina secured its third consecutive major title, following the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, matching Spain’s achievement of winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships alongside the 2010 World Cup. Additionally, Argentina ended Colombia’s 28-game unbeaten streak.