Argentina have successfully defended 2022 Copa America after a hard-fought Copa America 2024 final victory over Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in the USA, MySportDab reports.
In a feisty and intense game, the two sides battled for the right to be crowned continental champions in front of thousands of impassioned fans.
Colombia were the better side with a good spell of possession, great attacking flair, balanced with a solid defence. Wielding 58% of the ball and with more shot on targets, it was indeed a night of misfortunes for the team.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was once again on the spotlight for a series of brilliant saves and heroic performance which kept the Argentines in the game.
Meanwhile, Argentina were not giving in as they also lapped up a few chances but could not break the deadlock. The first half ended goalless.
The game proceeded on a similar tempo in the second half and grew more intense towards the final minutes. A few minutes after the half-hour, Argentina were hit with Lionel Messi’s injury.
The Inter Miami sensation had to be subbed off for Gonzalez, who perfectly filled the gap, after the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner picked up an apparent leg injury.
At the end of regulation time, it was still barren. The two teams failed to convert the few chances they created, forcing the game into extra time.
The first half of the extra time ended barren again with Colombia still dominating proceedings but the deadlock was finally broken with eight minutes of extra time left.
Paredes created the magical moment for the Argentines against the run of play after he won the ball in the midfield and then found Tottenham star Celso, who laid it out for Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez.
Coming one-on-one with Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, Martinez comfortably floored the goalie to separate the tie with a stunning low shot
Colombia pushed harder with the remaining few minutes to find an equaliser but were mobbed up by a solid Argentinian defence.
At the blast of the final whistle, Martinez’s goal was enough to secure victory for the Albiceleste, who have now successfully defended Copa America title. They are now the most successful team in the tournament with the highest number of trophies (17), one more than their closest rivals Uruguay.
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