Argentina Triumphs Amid Drama to Clinch Copa America
Argentina won its second consecutive Copa America championship by defeating Colombia 1-0, despite Lionel Messi's injury. Lautaro Martínez scored the deciding goal in the 112th minute. The victory marks Argentina's third successive major title and ends Colombia's 28-game unbeaten streak. The match experienced delays due to crowd issues.
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Argentina secured its second straight Copa America championship, overcoming a leg injury to Lionel Messi and defeating Colombia 1-0 with Lautaro Martínez's goal in the 112th minute.
Messi sustained a non-contact injury and was seen sobbing on the bench. Martínez celebrated his goal by hugging Messi, who remained influential despite the setback.
The match, delayed due to crowd trouble, saw Argentina claim its third consecutive major title following wins in the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup. This victory also ended Colombia's impressive 28-game unbeaten streak.
Lautaro Martínez scored from a perfect pass, beating Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas. Messi, who was limping post-match, urged his senior teammates to lift the trophy together in a heartfelt moment of celebration.
Di Maria, announcing his retirement, paid tribute to his teammates, saying he always dreamed of winning the Copa America in his final appearance. The championship game faced interruptions, including crowd control issues and a delayed start after fans breached security gates.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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