For the first time since 2015-16, the Copa America title is staying with the reigning champions.
Lautaro Martinez’s 112nd minute goal proved to be the winner as Argentina defeated Colombia 1-0 at Hard Rock Stadium. The result gave Argentina its fourth trophy in the past three years and snapped the Colombians’ 27-match unbeaten run.
Argentina star Lionel Messi left the match with an ankle injury after the hour mark but celebrated his 45th major trophy at the final whistle. Angel Di Maria played his final match for Argentina, exiting the match in extra time.
Martinez came off the bench in the early stages of extra time and delivered his fifth goal of the competition. Giovani Lo Celso’s through-ball pass was rifled home by Martinez, who played the hero for Lionel Scaloni’s men.
It marked Martinez’s fourth goal of the tournament that came after the 80th minute.
Colombia came close to scoring in the opening minutes with Jhon Cordoba striking the post from point blank range. Luis Diaz and Carlos Cuesta were also repelled by Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez in the first half.
Angel Di Maria was kept out twice by Camilo Vargas as Argentina ramped up the pressure in the final third. Nicolas Gonzalez and Nicolas Tagliafico were also repelled by the 35-year-old Vargas, who finished with five saves on the evening.
However, Martinez’s breakthrough moment proved to be the difference as Argentina extended its unbeaten run to four matches against Colombia.
Both teams will have a lengthy break before resuming their respective World Cup Qualifying schedules this fall.
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