Argentina claimed its second consecutive Copa America championship today, despite Lionel Messi suffering a leg injury in the second half, with a narrow 1-0 victory over Colombia.
Lautaro Martínez sealed the win for the champions with a goal in the 112th minute.
Messi appeared to sustain a non-contact injury while running and fell in the 64th minute, later covering his face with his hands as he sat on the bench.
The match experienced a delay of over an hour due to a rush of fans, many without tickets, attempting to enter the stadium.
Colombia showcased more aggression initially, prompting goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to make four saves in the first half. However, Argentina became more threatening in the second half.
Nicolás Tagliafico thought he had scored in the 75th minute, but his goal was ruled offside.
Nicolás González, who replaced Messi, was denied by goalkeeper Vargas in the 95th minute.
Many players struggled with their footing in the second half of Sunday’s match.
The field was heavily watered with sprinklers after a halftime performance by Colombian pop star Shakira, leading to an extended halftime break.
Martínez came on in the 97th minute and netted the decisive goal from a perfect through pass by Giovani Lo Celso.