Argentina Claims Second Consecutive Copa America Title Amid Dramatic Finale

Argentina secured its second straight Copa America championship with a 1-0 victory over Colombia, despite Lionel Messi sustaining a second-half leg injury. Lautaro Martínez scored the decisive goal in the 112th minute, sealing Argentina's record 16th Copa title and ending Colombia's 28-game unbeaten streak.

Argentina won its second consecutive Copa America championship, overcoming a second-half leg injury to Lionel Messi to edge out Colombia 1-0, with Lautaro Martínez scoring the decisive goal in the 112th minute.

Messi appeared to sustain a non-contact injury while running and falling in the 64th minute, later covering his face with his hands when he sat on the bench. Martínez subsequently celebrated with his captain after securing Argentina's record 16th Copa title on Sunday night.

The match, delayed by crowd trouble at Hard Rock Stadium, saw Argentina clinch its third straight major title after the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, equaling Spain's triumphs in the late 2000s and early 2010s.

This victory also ended Colombia's 28-game unbeaten streak, which had persisted since a February 2022 loss to Argentina. Martínez, who subbed in at the 97th minute, scored his tournament-high fifth goal from Giovani Lo Celso's immaculate through pass, shooting through the upraised arms of sliding goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.

(With inputs from agencies.)